Are you a beginner to Paddle Boarding and want to know more? You have come to the right place. This article will educate you on everything you need to know as a beginner to Paddle Boarding.
Table of Contents
What Is Paddle Boarding? And Why You Should Consider Starting
Paddle Boarding has surged in popularity in the UK in recent years; it involves standing on a board and paddling through the water, a cross between surfing and canoeing.
Paddle Boarding is a pleasant yet exciting way to navigate the many waters of the UK. It is accessible to nearly all and provides a range of health benefits.
It’s an excellent full-body workout, engaging the core, arms, legs, and back, enhancing physical fitness and aiding weight loss through low-impact exercise.
Additionally, it offers mental health benefits, promoting calmness and mindfulness, and fosters a deep connection with nature, allowing paddlers to immerse in serene environments and interact with marine life away from daily chaos.
It’s easy to see why Paddle Boarding is the UK’s 4th most popular water sport.
Choosing The Right Paddle Board & Paddle
The first step when beginning paddle is selecting and purchasing the right equipment. The choices you make here will influence your experience on the water.
Types of Paddle Boards: Inflatable vs. Solid
Paddle Boards are Inflatable or Solid. Inflatable SUPs are the most commonly sold in the UK.
Inflatable Paddle Boards
Inflatable paddle boards, often made from robust PVC material with drop-stitch construction, can be deflated, packed, and transported in a backpack or car boot.
Their portability makes them ideal for those with limited storage space or paddlers who love travelling.
Contrary to what some might think, inflatable boards are incredibly durable.
They are less prone to damage from impact, such as hitting rocks or being dropped.
Inflatable paddle boards are generally thicker and have a bit more give, which provides extra stability and comfort, especially for yoga or fitness activities on the board.
Inflatable boards offer excellent performance but are typically slower and have less glide efficiency than solid boards.
Solid Paddle Boards
Solid boards, constructed from materials like fibreglass, epoxy, or wood, are more rigid, providing better glide and efficiency in the water, making them ideal for racing, surfing, and long-distance touring.
The rigidity of solid boards translates to better sensitivity to water conditions. Experienced paddlers often prefer solid boards’ immediate response and control.
Solid boards are more prone to dings and cracks but don’t require inflatable setup time. They’re ready to go when you are, without the need for inflation.
The major downside of solid boards is their size and weight. They require more storage space and can be challenging to transport, especially for smaller individuals or those without a car/van with a roof rack.
Inflatable Or Solid?
An inflatable board will be your best bet if you’re a beginner and value convenience, portability, and stability.
A solid board will be more suitable if you have some experience and want to focus on performance, speed, and precise control.
Regardless of your choice, both types offer a fantastic way to enjoy the water and the sport of paddle boarding.
Selecting The Right Paddle: Length & Material
Selecting the right paddle is essential for enjoyable and effective paddling. Here are the key factors to consider:
Paddle Length
A paddle that is too long or too short can lead to discomfort and inefficiency. A general rule is to choose a paddle about 6 to 10 inches taller than your height.
However, this can vary based on the type of paddling you’re doing. For instance, a shorter paddle might be preferable for better control if you’re into wave riding.
Adjustable paddles can be adjusted to the right length for you and shared with those of different heights.
Fixed-length paddles are tailored to your specific needs and height but lack the flexibility of adjustable paddles.
Paddle Shaft
Shafts are typically made from aluminium, fibreglass, or carbon fibre. Aluminium is durable and affordable but heavier. Fiberglass offers a middle ground in terms of weight and cost. Carbon fibre is the lightest and stiffest, providing the best performance but at a higher price.
Ensure the shaft diameter fits comfortably in your hand. A too-large or too-small diameter can lead to grip fatigue or discomfort.
Paddle Blade
Larger blades move more water and offer more power but require more effort, suitable for stronger paddlers or those seeking a workout.
Smaller blades are easier to handle and are better for long-duration paddling.
Like shafts, blade materials vary. Lighter blades reduce overall paddle weight, minimising arm fatigue. They are made from plastic, fibreglass, or carbon fibre.
The angle of the blade relative to the shaft affects the paddle’s efficiency. A higher angle provides a more powerful stroke, suitable for sprinting or surfing, while a lower angle is better for long-distance cruising.
Paddling Style & Conditions
Establish your style and the conditions you’ll be paddling in when choosing a paddle.
For general use, a standard adjustable paddle made of aluminium or fibreglass is versatile and suitable for beginners.
Carbon fibre paddles are light and rigid for racing or touring, providing better propulsion and less fatigue.
For surfing, shorter paddles provide better manoeuvrability on waves.
Paddles with wider blades are used for greater power in strong currents or winds, while narrower blades are for smoother, easier strokes, ideal for calm waters or long distances.
Comfort & Ergonomics
Look for ergonomic grips to reduce strain on your hands and wrists, making paddling more efficient and comfortable.
A lighter paddle reduces fatigue but doesn’t sacrifice durability and strength for weight.
Essential Paddle Boarding Gear
Once you have your paddle board and paddle sorted, it’s time to look at the other essentials.
Life Jackets
Life jackets, AKA personal flotation devices (PFDs), are an essential safety item for paddle boarding for several reasons:
- Safety and Buoyancy: The primary function of a life jacket is to provide buoyancy, keeping you afloat in the water. This is essential in case of an unexpected fall into the water.
- Energy Conservation: In an emergency, a life jacket will help conserve energy that would otherwise be spent trying to stay afloat, allowing you to focus on returning to safety.
- Visibility: Many life jackets feature bright colours, reflective materials and a whistle, crucial for being spotted and heard by rescuers or other water users in an emergency.
Different Types Of Life Jackets For Paddle Boarding
For paddle boarding, it’s important to choose life jackets or buoyancy aids that provide safety while allowing for ease of movement. Here are the types suited for paddle boarding:
50N Buoyancy Aids
Ideal for paddle boarders who are confident swimmers in sheltered waters where help is readily available. These provide 50 Newtons of buoyancy and are suitable for calm water paddle boarding. However, they do not provide enough buoyancy to support a person incapacitated or unable to swim. They don’t automatically turn an individual from a face-down position in the water to a safer, face-up orientation.
100N Life Jackets
Suitable for swimmers and non-swimmers in inshore and coastal areas during paddle boarding. They provide 100 Newtons of buoyancy and are designed to turn an unconscious person into a safe position.
150N Inflatable Life Jackets
Offering 150 Newtons of buoyancy, they can turn an unconscious person into a safe position. While bulkier, they provide additional safety for those venturing into open waters.
275N Life Jackets
Generally not necessary for paddle boarding, these are intended for extreme offshore conditions. However, for paddle boarders who venture into very rough seas or who carry heavy gear, these provide the highest level of buoyancy at 275 Newtons.
When buying a life jacket for Paddle Boarding, it’s important to consider factors like the type of water you’ll be in, comfort, freedom of movement, and whether you’ll paddle alone or in a group.
Paddle Board Leash
A Paddle Board leash is an essential safety device in paddle boarding. It’s a cord that typically attaches one end to the paddle board and the other to the paddler, usually around the ankle or calf.
The primary purpose of a leash is to keep the paddle board close to you if you fall off. This is crucial for safety, especially in strong currents, high winds, or waves, where the board can quickly drift away.
A leash ensures your board is always within reach, saving you from the effort of swimming after it, which can be tiring and potentially dangerous.
In an emergency, your board becomes a vital floating device. The leash ensures this lifeline remains close, allowing you to cling to the board for buoyancy and rest.
A leash prevents your board from becoming a hazard to other water users if you fall off, as an uncontrolled board can cause injury to others.
Always ensure the leash is in good condition and inspect it for any wear or damage before every trip.
Types Of Paddle Board Leashes
There are several types of Paddle Board leashes.
Straight Leashes
Ideal for flat water paddling, they stay out of the water while paddling, reducing drag and are longer than coiled leashes, giving more distance between you and the board in a fall.
Coiled Leashes
The spiral design keeps the leash on the board and out of the water, minimising drag and the chance of it catching on anything. It is best for water but can be used in small surf.
Quick Release Leashes
Designed for river or rapid paddling where there’s a risk of the leash getting caught on underwater objects. Equipped with a mechanism that allows you to release yourself from the leash quickly.
Specialised Leashes
Some leashes are for specific types of paddling, like surfing, where the leash needs to be strong enough to handle waves and quick turns.
Waterproof Bag
A waterproof bag is designed to prevent water from entering and damaging the contents inside. It protects items like phones, keys, cameras, snacks, and extra clothing paddlers often bring on their trips.
Waterproof bags are made from materials such as PVC or nylon coated with waterproof substances. They are designed to create a watertight barrier with sealing mechanisms like roll-top closures, zips, or fold-over tops.
When sealed correctly, these bags will withstand immersion in water, keeping your belongings dry even if the bag falls into the water.
You can pack your bag with essential safety items like a first-aid kit, whistle, a small flashlight and other useful items, such as suncream, snacks, and extra clothing.
The bag will reduce worry about damaging or losing important items, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time on the water.
Types Of Waterproof Bags
There are several types of waterproof bags.
Dry Bags
Typically made from vinyl or nylon with a waterproof coating, they come in various sizes, from small pouches for phones to large bags for camping gear. Most use a roll-top closure, which effectively keeps water out when sealed properly.
Waterproof Backpacks
Similar to dry bags but designed like a backpack for ease of carrying.
Useful for longer or more gear-intensive trips, they often have additional pockets and compartments (some of which may not be waterproof).
Waterproof Pouches
Small, lightweight, and often worn around the neck or waist. Ideal for essentials like phones, keys, and small cameras. Some have a clear window that allows you to use your phone without taking it out.
Waterproof Duffel Bags
Larger capacity, suitable for extended trips or multiple paddlers. Often, it comes with shoulder straps for easier transport.
Deck Bags
Designed to attach directly to the deck of a paddle board. Provides easy access to gear while on the water and is more streamlined and less bulky than carrying a backpack.
Choosing The Right Waterproof Bag
When choosing a waterproof bag, consider the size you need based on the gear you plan to carry, the closure system for ease of use and reliability, and how you’ll carry it (e.g., backpack style, pouch, or deck bag).
Testing the bag before use is important to ensure its waterproof integrity. Remember, while waterproof bags are designed to dry contents, taking extra precautions with sensitive items (like double-bagging phones) is always a good idea.
Additional Paddle Boarding Accessories
These additional Paddle Board accessories can improve safety, comfort, and convenience. Here’s a list of some popular additional accessories for paddle boarding:
Wetsuit Or Drysuit
A wetsuit or dry suit can keep you warm and comfortable, depending on the water and air temperature. Wetsuits are ideal for cooler conditions, while drysuits are best for cold water and air temperatures, providing complete insulation.
Water Shoes
Water shoes provide a better grip on the board, protect your feet from sharp objects in the water, and offer extra warmth in cooler weather.
Paddle Gloves
Useful for preventing blisters and improving grip, especially during longer paddling sessions or in colder weather.
Board Carry Straps Or Carts
This is for easier transportation of your board from your vehicle to the water, especially if you have a solid board, which can be quite heavy.
Sun Protection
This includes suncream, sunglasses (preferably with a strap so they don’t fall off), and a hat or visor to protect against sunburn and glare from the water.
Hydration Pack
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially on longer trips. A hydration pack or water bottle attached to the board is a useful accessory.
GPS Device Or Smartwatch
For tracking your route, distance, and speed. Some are even designed for water sports and can provide valuable data about your paddling performance.
Anchor
If you plan to stop for swimming, yoga, fishing, or just want to relax in one spot, a small, lightweight anchor will keep your board in place.
Dry Change of Clothes
It’s always a good idea to have a dry set after your paddling session in case you get wet during your outing.
Repair Kit
For inflatable boards, having a repair kit on hand is important for fixing any punctures that might occur.
Camera Or Action Camera
To capture the scenic views or record your adventure. Many paddlers use waterproof action cameras mounted on the board or worn on the body.
Emergency Whistle and Flashlight
For safety, especially if paddling in more remote areas or low-light conditions.
Seat Attachment
Some paddle boards allow a seat attachment, transforming your SUP into a sit-on kayak, which is a nice option for longer journeys or those who prefer sitting down.
These accessories will make your paddle boarding more enjoyable and comfortable. When choosing which accessories to bring along, it’s important to consider the conditions you’ll be paddling in and your specific needs.
Getting Started In The Water
Once you have your gear, you must use it in the water. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Standing Up
Standing on a paddle board will seem challenging at first, but will become much easier with practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you stand up on a paddle board confidently:
- Start in Shallow Water: Begin in water shallow enough to stand comfortably. This makes getting back on the board easier if you fall off.
- Position Your Board: Ensure your board is in deep enough water so the fin is not touching the bottom. The board should be stable and still, before you try to stand.
- Kneel on the Board: Start by kneeling on the board, placing your knees roughly where your feet will go when you stand up, usually near the centre of the board where the balance point is. A handle or a logo often marks this.
- Find Your Balance: While kneeling, feel the board’s balance and how it reacts to your movements. Keep your hands on the sides of the board for stability.
- Prepare to Stand: Place your paddle horizontally in front of you across the board with the grip to the right and the blade to the left (or vice versa, depending on your dominant hand).
- Standing Up, One Foot at a Time: With your hands on the board for support, bring one foot forward and place it where your knee was. Do the same with the other foot.
- Rise to a Stand: Slowly raise your torso with your feet flat and shoulder-width apart. Keep your knees bent slightly. Use your hands for balance as you stand up straight.
- Adjust Your Stance: Once standing, adjust your feet as needed. They should be parallel, about hip-width apart, pointing forward. Keep your knees bent slightly to improve balance.
- Look Forward, Not Down: Focus on a fixed point in the distance to help maintain balance. Looking down at your feet can throw off your balance.
- Start Paddling: Once you feel stable, pick up your paddle and start with gentle strokes. This will help you maintain balance and steer the board.
Remember, falling off a few times when learning is completely normal. Just climb back on and try again.
Standing up on a paddle board will become a smooth, almost natural movement with practice.
Practising in calm, flat water before moving to more challenging conditions is also a good idea.
Balancing
Balancing on a paddle board improves with practice and experience. Here are some tips to help you maintain balance while on a paddle board:
Board Positioning
Start in calm, flat water where it is easier to maintain balance. Ensure your board is properly positioned in the water, floating freely and not touching the bottom.
Proper Stance
- Stand in the middle of the board where it’s widest, usually around the carry handle. This is the balance point of the board.
- Your feet should be parallel, about hip-width apart, and pointed toward the nose of the board. Avoid standing too wide or too narrow.
- Keep your knees slightly bent. This lowers your centre of gravity and provides more stability.
- Distribute your weight evenly between both feet. Avoid leaning too far forward or backwards.
Focus On A Fixed Point
Look straight ahead at a fixed horizon or shore point, not down at your feet. This helps maintain balance and improves stability.
Use Your Core
Engage your core muscles. Good balance on a paddle board comes from the core, not just the legs.
This helps absorb the movements of the board and maintain stability.
Relax & Breathe
Try to stay relaxed. Tension in your body, especially your legs and feet, can make it harder to balance. Breathe normally to help relax. Holding your breath can increase tension.
Paddling Technique
Use your paddle for additional stability. Keep paddling with smooth, steady strokes. The motion of paddling can help you maintain balance. If you feel unsteady, a wider stroke helps stabilise the board.
Shift Weight As Needed
In choppy water or when turning, shifting your weight slightly by leaning your body or adjusting your feet is often necessary.
Practice shifting your body weight in a controlled way to understand how your board responds.
Practice Falling & Getting Back On
Learn how to fall safely (away from the board) and get back on. This reduces the fear of falling and improves confidence in balancing.
Mind The Conditions
Be mindful of wind, current, and waves, as they affect your balance. Start in calm conditions and gradually build up to more challenging environments.
Regular Practice
Like any skill, balancing on a Paddle Board improves with regular practice. Spend time on the board to understand how it moves and reacts to different conditions.
Remember, it’s normal to wobble and fall off when you’re learning. You improve your balancing skills each time you get back on the board. With patience and practice, you’ll find your balance improving significantly.
Paddling Techniques
Paddling efficiently on a paddle board involves mastering several key techniques.
These techniques help you move and steer the board effectively, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Here are the primary paddling techniques used in stand-up paddle boarding:
Forward Stroke
This is the most basic and commonly used stroke in paddle boarding, propelling the board forward:
- Reach Forward: Extend your arms and reach forward with the paddle. One hand should be on the top of the paddle handle while the other is halfway down the shaft.
- Insert the Blade: Immerse the entire blade vertically into the water.
- Pull Through the Water: Using your torso more than your arms, pull the paddle back through the water in a straight line close to the side of the board.
- Release and Recover: When the paddle reaches your ankle, lift it out of the water and return it to the starting position for another stroke.
Reverse Stroke
The reverse stroke is used to slow down, stop, or move backward:
- Push the blade Forward: Place the paddle in the water near the board’s tail.
- Pull Towards the Nose: Push the blade forward through the water towards the nose of the board.
- Lift the paddle Out: Once it reaches the nose, lift it out and return to the starting position.
Sweep Stroke
This stroke is used for turning the board:
- For Turning Left: Place the paddle into the water on the right side of the board.
- Wide Arc Stroke: Perform a wide, sweeping stroke, moving the paddle from the nose to the tail in a wide arc.
- For Turning Right: Reverse the direction, placing the paddle on the left side and sweeping from the nose to the tail.
Draw Stroke
The draw stroke moves the board sideways or for fine-tuning its position:
- Reach Out: Reach out to the side, away from the board, and place the paddle blade in the water.
- Pull Towards the Board: Pull the paddle blade towards the board in a straight line.
- Stop Before the Board: Before the paddle reaches the board, stop and slice it out of the water to prevent hitting the board.
Bracing Stroke
This technique is used to stabilise the board if you feel unsteady:
- Slap the Water: If you feel like you’re about to fall, slap the flat part of the paddle blade onto the surface of the water.
- Lean on the Paddle: Briefly lean your weight onto the paddle for support.
Pivot Turn
Used for quick turns, especially in the surf or tight spaces:
- Move to the Back of the Board: Step one foot back to lift the nose of the board slightly out of the water.
- Sweep Stroke: Use a sweep stroke on one side of the board.
- Shift Weight as Needed: Adjust your weight as necessary to maintain balance.
Paddle Boarding Safety
Safety is paramount in paddle boarding, just as in any water sport. Understanding and adhering to essential safety practices will greatly reduce risks and improve your experience on the water.
Understanding Weather, Water & Wind Conditions
It’s essential to understand weather, water and wind conditions before getting in the water with your Paddle Board.
Weather Forecast
Always check the local weather forecast before your trip. Look for information on wind speed and direction, temperature, and the chance of precipitation. We suggest The Met Office website or app.
Be aware of changes in the weather while you’re on the water, as conditions can change quickly.
Water Conditions
Familiarise yourself with the water body you plan to paddle in. Understand the typical current patterns, tide times (if applicable), and any known hazards like underwater rocks or heavy boat traffic areas.
Avoid areas with strong currents or tides unless you are experienced and specifically prepared for such conditions.
Wind Awareness
Be particularly cautious of wind conditions. Strong winds can make paddling difficult and quickly blow you off course or away from shore.
Generally, if you’re a beginner, avoid paddling in winds stronger than 12-15 mph.
Avoid Severe Weather
Do not paddle in thunderstorms, heavy rain, or fog. Lightning and reduced visibility can create dangerous situations.
General Safety Practices
- Wear A Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitting personal flotation device. Use a life jacket that provides enough buoyancy and allows freedom of movement.
- Use A Leash: A leash keeps you tethered to your board, which is essential if you fall into the water. It prevents the board from drifting away.
- Consider A Helmet: A helmet can prevent head injuries in environments with rocks, obstacles, or heavy surf.
- Paddle with a friend: Especially for beginners, paddling with a companion enhances safety and makes the experience more enjoyable. There’s safety in numbers in case of an emergency.
- Inform Someone Of Your Trip: Always let someone on shore know about your paddle trip, including where you’re going and when you expect to return. This ensures that someone will be aware if you don’t return on time and can alert emergency services if necessary.
- Awareness of Surroundings: Keep a vigilant eye on your surroundings. Watch for other water users, such as swimmers, boaters, and fellow paddle boarders. Be aware of and respect local wildlife. Maintain a safe distance from marine animals.
- Communication and Signaling Devices: Carry a whistle to attract attention in an emergency. Keep a means of communication, like a mobile phone, in a waterproof case, especially if paddling alone or in remote areas.
- Stay Within Your Limits: Know your skill level, and don’t venture into water conditions beyond your ability. Practice in safe, calm waters and gradually challenge yourself as you gain experience.
- Respect Maritime Rules and Regulations: Understand maritime rules, such as right-of-way and area-specific regulations.
- Sun Protection: Use suncream, wear a hat, and consider UV-protective clothing, as sun exposure can be intense on the water.
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you carry and consume enough water while paddling.
Good safety practices will protect you and provide a safer environment for all water users.
Finding Good Spots For Paddle Boarding
Discovering the ideal location for paddle boarding can significantly enhance your experience, especially as a beginner. Here’s a guide to help you find suitable spots and understand the differences between paddling in various water conditions.
Seek Out Calm Waters
As a beginner, look for bodies of water known for their calmness, such as small lakes, ponds, or protected bays. Calm waters make learning basic skills like balancing and paddling easier.
Check For Accessibility
Consider how easy it is to get to the water. Locations with convenient access, like public beaches or parks with launch areas, are ideal.
Look For Shallow Areas
Spots where you can easily stand up in the water benefit beginners. They provide security and make climbing back onto the board easier if you fall off.
Avoid Crowded Spots
Choose less crowded locations. Fewer boats, swimmers, and Paddle Boarders mean fewer distractions and obstacles.
Research Local Regulations
Some areas may have specific rules regarding paddle boarding. Check for required permits, designated paddle boarding areas, and wildlife protection regulations.
Consult Local Paddle Boarding Communities
Local Paddle Boarding clubs or groups can provide insight into beginners’ best spots. They often share updates about water conditions and safety tips.
Paddling in Calm Waters vs More Challenging Waters
Lakes, calm seas, oceans and rivers have different characteristics, provide different experiences and require varying skill levels.
Calm Waters (Lakes, Calm Seas)
- Characteristics: Have minimal waves and currents, making them ideal for learning.
- Skills Required: Easier to practice basic techniques, such as balancing and straight-line paddling.
- Safety: Even in calm waters, be aware of weather changes, underwater hazards, and local wildlife.
Oceans
- Characteristics: Have waves, tides, and strong currents. Coastal paddling introduces factors like wind, tide changes, and marine traffic.
- Skills Required: Requires good balance, paddling in a straight line, and knowledge of handling waves.
- Safety: Understanding tides and currents is essential. Always check marine weather forecasts and consider paddling with an experienced group.
Rivers
- Characteristics: Flowing water with potential for currents, rapids, and obstacles like rocks or fallen trees.
- Skills Required: Requires quick manoeuvring, strong paddling skills, and the ability to read water conditions.
- Safety: Beginners should start on slow-moving, wide rivers with no rapids. Always be aware of water levels and flow rates, which can change rapidly. Also, consider plant life and weed, which can be a danger.
Calm, flat waters are the best places for beginners to start paddle boarding. They offer a safe and manageable environment to build your confidence and skills.
As you gain experience, you can gradually venture into more challenging waters, considering the increased risks and necessary skills.
Always prioritise safety, stay informed about the local water conditions, and don’t hesitate to ask for advice from experienced paddle boarders or local clubs. Paddle Boarding lessons are a good idea also.
Paddle Boarding Etiquette
Adhering to proper paddle boarding etiquette is about ensuring your safety and that of others, respecting nature and fellow water sports enthusiasts.
Here’s a guide to help you understand and practice good Paddle Boarding etiquette, including right-of-way rules and respectful conduct.
Right of Way Rules on the Water
- Understand Maritime Right-of-Way Rules: Generally, vessels under power, like boats, have the right of way over Paddle Boards. However, always stay alert and be prepared to yield, as not all boaters know or follow these rules.
- Yielding to Other Paddle Boarders and Surfers: When approaching head-on, both parties should veer right to avoid a collision. In surf zones, the person closest to the breaking wave has the right of way. If you’re paddling out and someone is riding a wave, you must avoid them.
- Navigating Around Swimmers: Always give swimmers a wide berth. They may not be as visible, and approaching too close can be alarming and dangerous for them.
- Avoiding Fishing Lines: Be mindful of fishermen and their lines. Paddle around them safely to avoid entangling your board or paddle.
Respecting Nature & Other Water Users
- Minimise Environmental Impact: Stick to designated waterways and avoid disturbing wildlife habitats. Avoid damaging underwater vegetation with your paddle or board.
- Keep Noise to a Minimum: Many people use waterways for relaxation and connection with nature. Keep noise levels low to maintain a tranquil environment.
- Leave No Trace: Don’t litter or leave anything behind. Carry a small bag to store rubbish until you can dispose of it properly.
- Respect Private Property: Avoid trespassing on private docks, beaches, or property. Launch and land your paddle board in public access areas.
- Sharing Space with Courtesy: Be courteous to all water users. A friendly attitude and a smile go a long way.
- Assist Others in Distress: If you encounter someone in trouble, offer assistance if you can do so safely. Call emergency services if the situation is beyond your capacity to help.
- Educate Yourself on Local Regulations: Different areas may have specific rules and regulations. Familiarise yourself with these to ensure you’re paddling responsibly.
Begin Your Paddle Boarding Journey
As a beginner, your journey into paddle boarding will provide physical activity, enjoyable time outdoors, a connection with nature and hours of fun.
Don’t be deterred by the initial challenges. Like any new skill, paddle boarding takes time and practice. Remember, the rewards are worth the effort.
Paddle Boarding is a journey of continuous learning. There’s always a new technique to master, a new location to explore, or a new challenge to overcome.
Remember that safety should always be your top priority. Respect the water, wear the correct safety gear, understand the weather and water conditions, and adhere to proper Paddle Boarding etiquette. Learn about and respect the environment you are paddling in.