Shop for Stand Up Paddle Boards

The first trick to learning a new sport is putting yourself in the right mindset. Brace for the inevitable falls and get ready for the hard work it will take to master the technique of stand up paddle boarding. Take setbacks in stride and you’ll soon amaze everyone, including yourself.

Equipment can make or break your first SUP trip. Here are a few tips for choosing wisely:

• Larger stand up paddle boards tend to be better for beginners; they’re easier to balance on.

• When choosing a board, consult an expert and test the board in the water first.

• As a general rule of thumb, the paddle should be anywhere between 6 to 10 inches taller than you.

You’ll also want to get the right gear for your body. That means bathing suits and sunscreen in summer and wetsuits in winter. It also means wearing a personal flotation device. A floaty is required by the U.S. Coast Guard for anyone traveling on a vessel (yes, that even includes paddleboards!).

A calm, clear day is a beginner’s best friend. Rough surf is a novice’s worst enemy. If you want to make your first trip a successful one, avoid challenging conditions. Even when the surf is manageable, spend some time kneeling before standing up. That should help you balance.

Never stand with straight legs. Your knees should be slightly bent. Think of a skier’s stance and you’ll get the picture. Also, don’t look down at the ripples in the water. Keep your head up and your gaze on the horizon in order to maintain that all-important balance.

If you fall, and you will, be sure to propel yourself and fall away from the board rather than on top of it. A SUP board is hard. It makes for an unpleasant impact. Your chances of injury are lower if you aim for the water instead.

Many beginners use only their arms when paddling and balancing. That’s a mistake. The trick is harnessing the power of the core muscles, which are superior to the arm muscles in terms of both size and strength. Keep that key center area engaged and you’ll stand a far better chance of making it through the day.

There’s a reason stand up paddle boarding is the single fastest growing watersport in the world. It’s fun. It’s exciting. It’s scenic, and it provides an awesome, full-body workout. If you’re not enjoying every moment of it, you’re probably not doing it right.

BruSurf Stand Up Paddle Boards set the standard for SUP excellence. Since 1997, we have distributed the best SUP packages to dealers and manufacturers all over the world. The brainchild of South African Surfing Captain George Mayou, BruSurf’s wholesale distribution company has deep roots in the world of board sport manufacturing and retailing. Visit us at www.brusurf.com.

• http://www.mensfitness.com/training/endurance/first-timers-guide-to-stand-up-paddleboarding

• http://www.actionhub.com/how-to/2013/05/20/stand-up-paddleboarding-101-learning-the-basics/

Summary

Want to join the growing ranks of stand up paddle boarders? Want to make your first SUP experience a successful one? If you’re ready to try your hand at this increasingly popular sport, you’ll first need to acquaint yourself with the basics. Of course, the best way to learn is to sign up for some lessons. Nevertheless, BruSurf has put together this little guide to help you get started.