Five Must-Know Steps for SUP Beginners: Your First SUP Lesson

An inflatable stand up paddle board (SUP) is your ticket to water-based fun, fitness, and exploration. If you’re new to blow up paddle board, it might feel tricky at first, but with a few simple steps and practice, you’ll be cruising confidently. This guide breaks down the basics to get you started on your Heyboard Inflatable Paddle Board.

1. Mastering Balance: Your First Step

Begin by climbing onto your sup board from shallow water or a dock. Sit in the middle to feel the board’s stability. When ready, move to your knees, keeping your weight centered. Gradually stand, placing your feet where your knees were, and take it slow to stay steady.

2. Paddling Basics: Grip and Stroke

Grip the paddle board paddle with one hand on the top handle and the other midway down the shaft. Dip the blade fully into the water and pull it back smoothly toward your body. Keep strokes consistent and alternate sides to glide forward with ease.

3. Standing Strong: Find Your Stance

Once upright, stand with feet shoulder-width apart, centered near the sup paddle board’s handle. Keep your knees slightly bent and core engaged for balance. Stay relaxed to adapt to the water’s movement and maintain stability.

4. Moving Forward and Turning

Paddle evenly on both sides to move straight ahead. For smoother travel, keep strokes steady. To turn, paddle more forcefully on the opposite side of your desired direction (e.g., paddle left to turn right). Practice makes turns feel natural.

5. Slowing Down and Stopping

To slow your inflatable sup, lightly drag the paddle in the water beside the board sup. For a full stop, paddle backward on one side until you halt. Keep your stance stable with knees bent to stay balanced during deceleration.

Tips for SUP Success

Practice in calm waters, wear a life jacket, and embrace the learning curve—falls are part of the adventure! With each session, you’ll gain confidence and enjoy the thrill of paddleboarding. Get out there and make waves with your Heyboard Inflatable SUP(https://www.heyboards.com/collections/paddle-board)!