How to paddle board for beginners

So, you've seen people cruising smoothly on their paddle boards, gliding across the water with ease, and thought to yourself, "That looks amazing! I want to try that!". If you're wondering how to paddle board, you're in the right place. Paddle boarding is an incredibly fun, low-impact water activity that offers a great workout and an opportunity to connect with nature. But as a beginner, it can feel overwhelming at first. Don't worry; we'll guide you through the basics and share some tips to help you get started with confidence.

Let's break down paddle boarding for beginners with this easy-to-follow step-by-step guide. You'll be cruising around on your stand-up paddle board (SUP) in no time.

How to paddle board

Step 1: Choose the right paddle board

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's talk about choosing the right paddle board for you. Picking the right board makes a huge difference in how easy or difficult your experience will be. If you're entirely new to paddle boarding, go for a board that's stable and wide. A wider board gives you more balance, making it easier to stay on your feet.

In general, you'll want a board that's around 10-12 feet long, with a width of 30-34 inches. For your first board, inflatable paddle boards are often a great choice – they're easy to transport and store and are quite durable. You can even invest in some great paddle board accessories to ensure you have everything you need to make being out on the water as enjoyable as possible.

Step 2: Get the right gear

Besides your paddle board, there are a few essentials you'll need:

• Paddle: The paddle should be about 6-8 inches taller than your height. For beginners, it's a good idea to start with an adjustable paddle so you can find the right length.
• Leash: A leash attaches to your ankle and keeps you connected to your board in case you fall off. Safety first!
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Some places require you to wear a PFD, and it's always a good idea to have one, even if you're a strong swimmer.
• Appropriate clothing: Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and suited to the weather. A rash guard or swimsuit are great options.

Step 3: Start on your knees

For your first time on the water, start by kneeling on your paddle board. Find a calm, flat area (like a lake or bay) which will make it easier to practice staying on your board. Here's what to do:

• Position yourself in the centre of the board. Kneel with your knees a few inches apart in the middle, ensuring that the board feels balanced under you.
• Grab your paddle and keep it resting across the board so it's ready when you need it.
• Find your balance. Slowly shift your weight and get used to the feeling of the board under you. Don't rush this part, take your time to feel stable.

This is your starting point. When you're comfortable in a kneeling position, you'll be ready to move on to standing.

Step 4: Stand up

Now comes the exciting part: standing up! Standing up on a paddle board is all about timing and balance. Follow these steps:

• Place your hands on the board: With your paddle in hand, place your hands on the board's edge near the middle to push yourself up into a standing position.
• Transition to a standing position: Keep your paddle in front of you and push up with your arms, bringing one foot up at a time. Place your feet about hip-width apart, with your toes pointing forward and your knees slightly bent. You want to stay loose and avoid locking your knees.
• Find your centre of gravity: Keep your head up and look straight ahead, not down at your feet. This helps with balance. You may feel wobbly at first, but don't worry. Stay relaxed and focus on your balance.

Once you've successfully stood up on a paddle board, take a moment to adjust your stance and get used to the motion. If you're feeling unsure, feel free to return to a kneeling position for a few seconds and try again.

Step 5: Paddle

Now that you're standing tall, it's time to learn how to paddle a stand-up paddle board. Proper paddling techniques will help you glide smoothly and efficiently through the water.

• Hold the paddle correctly: Grip the paddle with one hand on the handle and the other on the shaft, around shoulder-width apart. The blade of the paddle should face away from you.
• Paddle on one side: To move forward, paddle on one side of the board. Dip the blade into the water, pulling it back towards your feet. The deeper you dip the blade, the more power you'll have.
• Switch sides: To keep your board moving straight, switch sides every few strokes. Make sure to paddle with the same strength on each side.
• Keep your arms straight: As you paddle, keep your arms relatively straight. Use your body to rotate, not just your arms. This will help you paddle more efficiently and save energy.

Step 6: Turn your paddle board

Once you've mastered the basics of paddling, you'll want to know how to turn. There are two simple ways to turn your paddle board:

• Sweep stroke: To turn, paddle backwards in a wide arc on one side of the board. This will help you rotate the board in the opposite direction.
• Reverse paddle: Another way to turn is to paddle backwards on one side of the board while keeping the rest of your strokes forward.

Paddle boarding tips for beginners

You've got the basics down, but how can you improve your paddle boarding skills? Here are a few tips:

• Practice your balance: Stand-up paddle boarding is all about balance. The more you practice, the better you'll get. Try different stances, like standing with your feet a little wider apart for more stability.
• Take a lesson: If you're not confident, consider booking a lesson with a certified paddle board instructor. They'll give you personalised feedback to help you improve.
• Start slow: Don't rush! Paddle at a comfortable pace and give yourself time to get used to the board and the water.
• Core strength: Paddle boarding is a fantastic workout for your core. The more you paddle, the stronger your core will become. It's also a great form of exercise as paddle boarding works a range of muscles across your body.
• Work on your paddling technique: Efficient paddling will help you save energy. Focus on smooth, controlled strokes rather than rushing through them.

Explore new locations

Once you get the hang of it, it’s time to venture out and explore new locations. Whether you’re paddling on a peaceful lake or navigating the coast, there are plenty of incredible spots to explore. Looking for the best places to paddle board in the UK? Check out this list of the best paddle board locations to find your next adventure.

Specialist paddle board insurance through Insure4Boats 

Fallen in love with paddle boarding? You might want to also consider protecting your paddle board through specialist paddle board insurance for extra peace of mind.

Through Insure4Boats, the cover is designed to protect your SUP against theft, loss, and damage. You’ll also receive £3m of Public Liability cover as standard, so you’ll be protected against claims if you injure someone or damage third-party property whilst out paddle boarding.

Learn more about specialist paddle board insurance through Insure4Boats, or get an online quote today.