Paddle boarding is a great leisure activity and a growing sport that suits people of all ages. Participants can sit, stand, or kneel on the board as they exercise and explore the seashore. However, beginners should learn a few paddle-boarding tricks to propel themselves quickly across the water and enjoy every moment. This article will highlight the top 10 secrets and tricks for successful paddle boarding.
Face the Right Direction
As obvious as this might seem, beginners cannot tell the front from the back side of the paddleboard. Therefore, after renting a paddleboard, one should check the fins, which should always be at the back, to avoid facing the wrong direction. Paddling with the fins facing the front would make it hard to resist waves and move in a straight line.
Align With the Direction of the Wind
Beginners should try paddle boarding in calm weather and slow wind. If there is high wind, the body functions as the sail that pushes the paddleboard. If unpredictable wind hits when in motion, it is best to lie on the paddleboard and use both hands to propel the paddleboard back to the shore.
Master Core Paddling
People use their hands to paddle, but engaging the core helps propel the paddleboard easily without quick tiring. Besides moving faster and more efficiently, using the core helps build muscles and increase core strength. However, beginners should consult experts or seasoned paddle boarders to ensure they do it right and master this trick.
Build up Skills and Confidence First
Beginners tend to be overconfident and have high expectations. However, one trick that usually works for beginners is building strength and skills in calm waters before paddle boarding in choppier water with waves. The sea is unpredictable, and understanding the power of water could reduce the risk of paddle boarding.
Look at the Horizon
It is natural for beginners to focus on the paddleboard they are stepping or kneeling on. However, bending to look at the board means that the shoulders and back are not straight. This makes it hard to maintain balance and also watch out for waves or other people paddle boarding around.
Fall Away from the Paddleboard
Falling is inevitable when learning paddle boarding. However, knowing when and how to fall safely will help avoid injury and eliminate the fear of falling. Experts recommend aiming away from the sharp fins that could cause injuries and instill fear.
Start While Kneeling
Learners usually find it easier to get used to paddle boarding when kneeling because their center of gravity is low. Therefore, they should stay on their knees until they master a few tricks and maneuvers. This helps build confidence and skills for better paddle strokes when standing.
Maintain a Wide Stance
The legs should be wide apart to maintain balance. It is best to ensure the paddle handle is at the center, with the knees on either side. The paddle should function as the ‘third leg’ to help keep balance on the unstable water surface.
Maintain Momentum
Maintaining balance is easier when the paddle board is in motion. Like riding a bicycle, one should continue paddling to keep moving. When stopping to chat with a trainer or a friend, it is best to keep the paddle blade in water or put it gently in front of the board.
Use Bracing to Regain Balance
It is crucial to learn how to use the paddle face to restore balance: bracing. There are different bracing methods, but all of them require practice. Therefore, beginners should take lessons and practice until bracing becomes their second nature.
These simple tips and tactics can help beginners master paddle boarding. It is also advisable to take at least two lessons with a competent trainer to learn basic skills. This will help build confidence for a great paddle boarding experience.
