How do you get back on a paddle after a fall?

Water activities are on the rise, and stand up paddle boarding is no exception to the rule. However, falling off your paddle board is a fairly common situation, especially for beginners. That’s why it’s important to know how to get back on your paddle safely after a fall.

To ensure that you can fully enjoy your paddling experience safely and confidently, we are going to reveal the different techniques and tips to get back on your paddle after a fall, avoid falls and improve your stability on the board.

I. Know the equipment needed

First of all, before talking about the techniques to get back on a paddle, it is important to know the equipment needed to paddle safely. The basic equipment for indulging in this water sport are boarding, paddling and leashing.

The
paddle board must be adapted
to your level, your weight and your practice. There are several types of paddle boards, including inflatable boards and rigid boards. Inflatable boards are practical, as they are lightweight, easy to transport and store, while choosing a rigid model will allow you to have an incomparable gliding sensation while having increased performance.

The paddle
should also be adapted to your practice. It must be the right size, have an ergonomic handle and a suitable blade. Carbon paddles are lighter, but more expensive, while aluminum paddles are heavier, more affordable, and more resistant to impact.

It is important to choose the right equipment to practice paddle boarding in complete safety. Quality equipment adapted to your level and your practice will allow you to practice in good conditions. It is therefore advisable to seek information from professionals and not hesitate to invest in quality equipment. In addition, quality equipment will last longer over time.

Finally, it is essential to maintain your equipment well, the inflatable boards must be deflated and stored in their carrying bag. If they are not used for a long period of time, such as during the winter period, they should be dried thoroughly before storage.

II. The different techniques to get back on a paddle board

Falling off your paddle board is common, especially for beginners. That’s why it’s important to know the different techniques to get back on your board safely.

There are several reasons why beginners often fall off their paddle boards. One of them is that the body of water can be choppy, with waves that can throw the paddle out of balance. In addition, choosing a paddle board that is not adapted to your level or inexpensive can also cause frequent falls, as low-cost paddles often have a reduced width to reduce costs.

Here are the main techniques for getting back on a paddle after a fall:

The Backing Plank Technique : this technique consists of positioning yourself next to the board, perpendicular to it. Then, place your hands on the board, on the opposite side of the rail, and then pull yourself up onto the board by pulling on your arms. This technique allows you to get on the board efficiently while minimizing the risk of falling. Slide your legs across the board, keeping your body resting on the water. Once the legs are on the board, simply get on your knees and then get back on the board in a standing position.
If you have a foot, an effective technique to get on the board is to push your legs while already having your arms on the board. Then, simply lean on your arms to position your knees on the board, before standing up. In case the water is shallow, another option is to proceed in the same way, but by placing your feet directly on the board instead of your knees.
In the extreme case, if you are unable to get back on the board, it is advisable to ask a friend for help to lift yourself up and onto the board or to hold the board while you get back on it. It’s important to stay close to the beach, where you have a foothold, to make sure you can get back in if you can’t get back on the board.

It is important to choose the technique that best suits your level. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional or an experienced friend.

Also check out our complete step-by-step guide to turn on a paddle board

III. Tips to avoid falls

Falling off your paddle board can be perceived as a fun experience, but it can also be very dangerous and lead to injury. Indeed, when there is not much depth, it is possible to twist your ankle or hit a rock. Here are our tips to avoid falls on your paddle:

Posture on the paddle : to avoid falls, it is important to be well positioned on the board. The ideal posture is to keep your feet parallel, shoulder-width apart and perpendicular to the board, your knees slightly bent and your back straight.
The importance of positioning your body correctly : one of the keys to maintaining balance on your paddle is to position your body correctly. It is advisable to keep your body weight above your supports, close to the center of the board, avoiding leaning excessively to one side or the other. This will allow you to better control the paddle and prevent falls.
In order to progress in the practice of paddle boarding, it is recommended to choose a body of water that is as flat as possible and preferably without wind, to facilitate adaptation and progression. Indeed, the rougher the body of water, the more difficult it will be to maintain an upright and balanced position. It is also advisable to wear clothing that is suitable for the weather conditions, in order to feel comfortable in the water. For people who are less comfortable in the water, it may be helpful to wear a buoyancy aid.

In short

By following our advice, you can reduce the risk of falling on your paddle and enjoy your practice safely.

Falling off your paddle board is a situation that can happen at any time. It is therefore important to know how to get back on your board safely to avoid injuries.
With a little practice and patience, you will quickly master the techniques to get back on your board and enjoy this water activity to the fullest.