How to Stand Up Paddle Board: A Beginners Guide
Often referred to as SUP, stand up paddle boarding is the perfect summer activity for both children and adults. If you’re already thinking about a new family hobby or solo activity where you can enjoy the outdoors, consider renting a stand up paddle board.
Not only is stand up paddle boarding a great way to work your arms, legs and core, but it offers you a unique way to view the water below as well soak in the beautiful scenery that Escanaba and crystal clear Lake Michigan has to offer.
Ready to get started? Our team has put together some helpful information to get you ready for your first stand up paddle board experience.
SUP Clothing & Gear
You only need a few items to get out on the water.
Stand Up Paddleboard: There is a range of paddle boards available, all designed for different uses like yoga, recreational, surfing, touring or racing. If you’re purchasing a board, make sure to do your research. If renting, talk to the staff to see what they offer.
Paddle: Stand the tear drop shaped part of the paddle vertically on the ground and raise your arm over your head. The handle should land right about where the bend of your wrist is.
Life vest: This is a requirement for children but adults are also welcome to wear one as well.
Swimsuit or wetsuit: Although you may not get in the water, some first timers do fall in. Wearing board shorts, a bathing suit or wetsuit is highly recommended so you can feel completely comfortable.
SUP Techniques for Beginners
While SUP is relaxing and easy to master, it can be tricky getting the hang of things. Follow the techniques below and you’ll be a pro in no time.
Standing up on the board
Follow these steps to properly stand up on the board.
Stand next to the board in the water and hold the board at its edges.
Get onto the board slowly in a kneeling position.
Make sure you are behind the center point of the board.
Stabilize the board by placing your hands at its sides.
Move one foot at a time where your knees were.
Don’t stand up in one motion. Instead, raise your chest up and keep your knees bent.
When your chest is vertical, extend your legs so you’re now standing.
Staying Balanced
Take a look below for a few pointers on staying balanced.
Keep your feet hip width apart.
Your feet should remain toward the center of the board.
Point your toes forward and have your knees slightly bent.
Avoid staring at your feet.
Holding the Paddle
There are two important tips when it comes to holding the paddle.
Angle the teardrop part of the paddle away from you and toward the front of your board.
When paddling on the right side of the board, put your left hand on the T grip of the paddle and your right hand a few feet down the shaft of the paddle.
Reverse hand positions when you switch sides.
Propelling Forward
Once you have your balance and feel comfortable with the paddle, it’s time for the real fun to begin.
Reach two feet forward and place your paddle in the water.
Push the blade completely into the water.
Move the paddle back toward your ankle and then out of the water.
Twist with your torso as you paddle and keep your arms straight.
Use your top hand to push the paddle down, rather than pulling the paddle with your lower arm.
To go in a straight line, do a couple of strokes on each side of the board.
Other Helpful SUP Tips
Start off on a small, calm body of water.
Find a spot to easily launch the board.
Choose a day with little to no wind.
Go with a friend so you can help each other out.
Rental a Paddle Board at Mr. Bike & Ski
Explore Lake Michigan by paddle board! We offer half-day and full-day stand up paddle board rentals with a free consultation from our team. We’ll walk you through the entire process so you feel completely confident when you head out on the water.
We are currently selling Great Lakes Paddle Boards and Bounce Paddle Boards. You can also rent Bounce Paddle Boards at our shop! For more information regarding our paddle boards, take a look at our paddle board page where you can get all the details. We hope to see you this summer!