Complete Guide to Stand-Up Paddleboarding: From Absolute Beginner to Expert Instruction

Stand Up Paddling:

To launch your paddleboard, lower it into the water by the center handle. 

Place your paddleboard on the board and hold it securely. 

Start by kneeling in the center of the board.

Then, slowly lift your feet one by one, rising into a half-squat. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, on either side of the handles.

Stand up again, slightly bending your knees but keeping your back straight. Your toes should be pointing forward, and you should also be facing forward! Keeping your head up will help you maintain balance.

How to Hold the Paddle:

Although it may seem counterintuitive, hold the paddle with the curve facing you, not away from you. 

Hold one hand at the top of the paddle and the other at the bottom. If you're holding the paddle overhead, your elbows should be bent at a 90-degree angle. You'll need to rotate your palms to switch stroke directions. 

When holding your SUP paddle, make sure the board is angled away from you.