How to start and progress in Stand Up Paddle?

Stand-Up Paddle

is an incredible practice for us, allowing us to combine physical activity and escape, while enjoying the ocean. Stand Up Paddle is a board water sport that consists of rowing standing up on a large and wide board with a paddle. This new water sport has developed very quickly in recent years. Indeed, it has the advantage of soliciting all the muscles of the body, while remaining an easy practice accessible to all.

On flat water, lake, river or ocean, thetand-up-paddle offers the opportunity to enjoy a variety of bodies of water, but also different practices. Indeed, there are many disciplines in the SUP. Depending on the model, you can enjoy walking, alone or with your family, long sports rides, touring, or even paddle racing and Paddle surfing when there are waves ! Today, the U is also found in the practice of foiling, to allow you to fly over the water in one stroke of the oar. Paddle boarding is also available for other activities, such as yoga or fishing.

Although SUP is one of the easiest water sports, it still requires a bit of learning to navigate with ease and fluidity whatever the spot. That’s why, in this article, we offer you all our advice to start and progress in stand-Up Paddle.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT AND THE RIGHT SPOT

First of all, you should know that a Stand Up Paddle board

adapted to your level will facilitate your beginnings and/or allow you to better progress and improve yourself. There are boards of Paddle for all ages and sizes, inflatable or rigid. Here’s how to understand the differences between an inflatable paddle board and a rigid paddle board.

We advise you to start on a board all-round which will be more stable. This is because a touring board has a sharper nose and penetrates the water better.

The choice of your body of water is also important for your first sessions. To make sure you have the most fun, choose flat and calm water.

ADJUSTING YOUR PADDLE CORRECTLY

When you start paddling, you can quickly neglect this step, which is essential to optimize your movement and not hurt your back. The length of your paddle should be adapted to your height, but also to your board and your practice. To start SUP on a ride, the easiest way is to adjust the height of your paddle with your arm extended above your head, and adjust when the handle reaches the level of your wrist.

UNDERSTANDING BALANCE

In order to gradually find your balance, the first step is to start on your knees. Hold the paddle facing you, and perpendicular to the paddle. Once stabilized, you can start paddling in this position, keeping your arm straight and your hand at the top of the paddle handle. The technique is to go far in front of you with the paddle, then raise it as soon as it reaches the level of the knees. Once you’re comfortable with this position, you can try to stand up. Don’t forget to look straight ahead to gain balance!

POSITIONING YOURSELF WELL

To position yourself properly on your paddle, place your feet in the middle of the length of the board perpendicular to the axis of the board. This position will ensure the stability of your board which will be flat on the water. Spread your feet further apart on either side of the handle and use the paddle if you lack stability.

Once you’re standing and on your feet, bend your knees slightly before rowing. This is because it will give you even more balance and allow you to row more efficiently. It is your legs and abdominals that will keep you stable. As explained earlier, an effective paddle is all about getting the paddle as far in front of you as possible. Be sure to keep your back straight when paddling to avoid hurting yourself.

PADDLING WELL

Place your hand on the handle of the paddle (called the “olive”) and the other hand on the tube. The spacing between the 2 hands corresponds to the width of the shoulders. To row properly, it is essential that the angle of the paddle blade is open towards the front of the board. In addition, this blade should always be vertical in the water.

To move straight ahead when navigating, dip the paddle blade towards the front of the board, then bring it back towards you. By pushing the blade firmly into the water up to the shaft, you will gain power.

If the plank goes straight, continue on the same side. Otherwise, place your paddle on the opposite side, switching hands. You will be able to alternate the oar on both sides to go straight. If you want to turn with your paddle, you will just have to paddle on the opposite side to the direction of the turn in order to rotate the front of the paddle.

How to choose my inflatable Stand-Up Paddle according to my level and my practice?

The SROKA team is a team of passionate people first and foremost. Since 2013, the company has been investing in inflatable Stand Up Paddle by developing quality products, durable over time and at an affordable price. The aim is for everyone to be able to find something to their liking and to have as much fun as possible sailing on the water. It is through the design and testing of our products, the development of colorful and pleasant designs, and our advice on how to evolve in paddle boarding, that we share our passion with you.

Here are some tips to guide you in choosing your inflatable Stand-Up-Paddle. And if you know need more information.

SROKA’s Easy range is perfect for starting SUP, whatever the practice you are considering. For cruising, the Easy pack in 10′ (-90 kg) and 10’6 (+ 90 kg) is perfectly suited to beginners who want to discover gliding on the water. These inflatable stand-up paddle boards are sold in ready-to-go packs. We have designed these packs to be as accessible as possible, while remaining efficient.

For all riders who are looking for a pleasant ride with great stability on long-distance tours, Easy 11’6×32 and Easy 12’6×32. Thanks to their streamlined lines and a pointed nose, the Easy Long Distance Bikes maintain a steering line while maintaining a high-performance stability.

The Malibu range of inflatable stand up paddle boards will suit beginners and practitioners who want to go to the water during the summer season. Ideal for cruising, this range will allow you to glide on a calm body of water effortlessly. The Malibu 10′ inflatable SUP is an All Around board, accessible to all, regardless of level of practice or physical ability. It’s perfect To start and/or practice with your family, whether it’s walking, surfing or yoga. This model is also Suitable for light riders. The Malibu 10’6 is wider, thicker and longer, and is therefore more suitable for larger builds.

If you are a regular rider and you are looking for a high-performance board for long rides, our range of Alpha paddles will guarantee you speed and stability. It’s a great compromise for those who want a stable board with superb glide and great speed performance. The Alpha 12’6×31 is a touring board. With the tail (back of the board) a little wider than the 12’6×28, these boards have excellent stability.

Now you’re ready to hit the water!