How to get started and progress in Stand Up Paddleboarding?

Stand-Up Paddling is an incredible activity for us, combining physical activity and escape, while enjoying the ocean. Stand Up Paddling is a water sport that consists of paddling standing up on a large, wide board. This new water sport has developed very quickly in recent years. Indeed, it has the advantage of working all the muscles of the body, while remaining an easy and accessible practice for everyone.

On flat water, lakes, rivers or the ocean, stand-up paddling offers the possibility of enjoying varied bodies of water, as well as different practices. Indeed, there are many disciplines of SUP. Depending on the models, you can go for leisurely rides, alone or with family, long sporty rides, touring, or even paddle races (racing) and paddle surfing when there are waves! Today, SUP is also found in foiling, allowing you to fly over the water with a single stroke. Paddling is also available for other activities, such as yoga or fishing.

Although SUP is one of the easiest water sports, it still requires a little practice to navigate with ease and fluidity whatever the spot. That's why, in this article, we offer you all our tips for getting started and progressing in Stand-Up Paddling.

First of all, know that a Stand Up Paddle board adapted to your level will facilitate your beginnings and/or allow you to progress and improve. There are paddle boards for all ages and body types, in 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 with an all-round board which will be more stable. Indeed, 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 be sure to have maximum fun, choose calm, flat water.

When you start paddling, you can quickly neglect this step, which is nevertheless essential to optimize your movement and avoid back pain. The length of your paddle must be adapted to your height, but also to your board and your practice. To start SUP for leisure, the simplest way is to adjust the height of your paddle with your arm extended above your head, and adjust when the handle reaches your wrist level.

To gradually find your balance, the first step is to start on your knees. Hold the paddle in front of you, perpendicular to the board. Once stable, you can start paddling in this position, keeping your arm extended and your hand at the top of the paddle handle. The technique is to reach far forward with the paddle, then lift it as soon as it reaches your knees. Once comfortable in this position, you can try to stand up. Don't forget to look straight ahead to gain balance!

To position yourself correctly on your paddle, place your feet in the middle of the length of the board, perpendicular to the board's axis. This position will ensure the stability of your board, which will be flat on the water. Spread your feet wider on each side of the handle and use the paddle if you lack stability.

Once standing and stable, slightly bend your knees before paddling. Indeed, this will give you even more balance and allow you to paddle more efficiently. It is your legs and abdominal muscles that will allow you to remain stable. As explained earlier, effective paddling involves bringing the paddle as far forward as possible. Be sure to keep your back straight when paddling to avoid injury.

Place one hand on the paddle grip (called the "olive") and the other hand on the shaft. The spacing between your two hands should be shoulder-width apart. To paddle correctly, it is essential that the angle of the paddle blade is open towards the front of the board. Furthermore, this blade should always be vertical in the water.

To move straight forward while navigating, plunge the paddle blade towards the front of the board, then pull it towards you. By deeply pushing the blade into the water up to the shaft, you will gain power.

If the board is going straight, continue on the same side. Otherwise, place your paddle on the opposite side, changing hands. You will be able to alternate paddling on both sides to go straight. If you want to turn with your paddle, simply paddle consistently on the side opposite to the direction of the turn to pivot the front of the paddle.

The SROKA team is, above all, a team of enthusiasts. Since 2013, the company has invested in inflatable Stand Up Paddles by developing quality products that are durable and affordable. The goal is for everyone to find something they enjoy and have maximum fun navigating on the water. It is through the design, testing of our products, the creation of colorful and pleasant designs, and our advice for progressing in paddling that we share our passion with you.

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

SROKA's Easy range is perfect for starting SUP, whatever the intended practice. For cruising, the Easy pack in 10′ (-90 kg) and 10’6 (+ 90 kg) is perfectly suited for beginners who want to discover gliding on the water. These inflatable Stand-Up-Paddles are sold in ready-to-go packs. We designed these packs to be as accessible as possible, while remaining high-performance.

For all practitioners looking for a pleasant glide with great stability during long-distance excursions, the Easy 11'6×32 and the Easy 12'6×32. Thanks to their streamlined lines and pointed nose, the long-distance Easy models maintain a straight direction while offering excellent stability.

The Malibu inflatable stand up paddle range is suitable for beginners and practitioners who want to get on the water during the beautiful season. Ideal for leisure paddling, this range will allow you to glide effortlessly on calm water. The Malibu 10′ inflatable SUP is an All-Around board, accessible to everyone, regardless of their skill level or physical abilities. It's perfect for beginners and/or for family use, whether for leisure paddling, surfing, or even yoga. This model is also suitable for lighter riders. The Malibu 10'6 is wider, thicker, and longer, and is therefore better suited for larger individuals.

If you are a regular practitioner and are looking for a high-performance board for long rides, our Alpha paddle range will guarantee speed and stability. It's an excellent compromise for those who want a stable board with superb glide and good speed performance. The Alpha 12'6×31 is a touring board. With a slightly wider tail (rear of the board) than the 12'6×28, these boards offer excellent stability.

You are now ready to hit the water!

If you still have questions about this, or for any other request, do not hesitate to contact us!