Standing on the board gives you a unique view of what’s beneath the water and the horizon. Here’s what you need to know before heading out:

● Getting Geared Up for SUP

Start by renting gear or borrowing from a friend. If you enjoy it, consider buying your own. Your board choice depends on your weight, skill level, and the conditions where you’ll paddle.

● Key Equipment:

- Paddleboard: Choose based on your weight, skill, and intended use (e.g., recreational, surfing, racing).
- Paddle: A SUP paddle has a tear-drop-shaped blade that angles forward. It should reach your wrist when stood upright next to you.
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Required by law when paddling outside surf or swim areas. Adults don’t have to wear it, but children must.
- **Safety Whistle & Light: Required by the Coast Guard for signaling other boaters; a light is necessary if paddling after sunset.
- **Proper Clothing: Wear a swimsuit, board shorts, and a rash guard in warm conditions. For cooler weather, consider a wetsuit or dry suit.
- Leash: Keeps your board close if you fall off. Choose a leash designed for your intended water conditions (surf, flatwater, rivers).
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.

● Basic SUP Paddling Techniques

Most beginners can stand up and paddle after just a little instruction. Here are the basics:

1. Standing Up:
- Start in knee-deep water beside the board.
- Hold the board’s edges and kneel just behind its center point (usually near the handle).
- Place one foot where your knee was, then the other.
- Gradually raise your chest while keeping your knees bent, then stand up slowly.

2. Staying Balanced:
- Keep your feet parallel and hip-width apart, centered on the board.
- Bend your knees slightly, keep your back straight, and focus on the horizon, not your feet.

3. Holding Your Paddle:
- The blade should angle forward toward the board’s nose.
- When paddling on the right, your left hand should be on the T-grip and your right on the shaft; switch hands when changing sides.

4. Falling and Getting Back On:
- Aim to fall into the water, not onto the board, to avoid injury.
- Try to keep your paddle; if separated, get the board first and paddle with your hands to retrieve it.
- To reboard, grab the center handle, let your legs float up, and kick to slide yourself back on.

● SUP Strokes

1. Forward Stroke:** Propels you forward.
- Reach forward and plant the paddle, submerging the blade.
- Keep your arms straight, twist from your torso, and push down on the top hand.
- Alternate sides every few strokes to maintain a straight path.

2. Reverse Stroke:** Used for slowing, stopping, or turning.
- Reach back, plant the paddle near the tail, and pull forward.
- Use this stroke on the right side to turn right, and on the left to turn left.

3. Sweep Stroke:** Turns your board while stationary or moving.
- Plant the paddle forward, then sweep it in a wide arc from the board’s nose to tail.
- Use this stroke on the right side to turn left, and on the left to turn right.

● Tips for Your First SUP Outing

- Choose a calm, small body of water with minimal obstacles.
- Find a sandy beach or a wading area to launch your board easily.
- Go on a sunny day with little wind.
- Paddle against the wind on your way out, so it helps you back.
- Go with a friend for safety.
- Plan to be on the water for about an hour on your first try.