Beginner Paddle Boarding Tips

Learning how to paddle board is an incredibly enjoyable activity, and once you master the basics, you’ll be able to enjoy the water in new ways. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Be Comfortable Swimming

Before you get on the board, make sure you are comfortable in the water and able to swim. As a new paddle boarder, you may likely end up in the water at some point so make sure you’re comfortable with swimming around.

Learn to Paddle Board From Your Knees

It is generally easier to learn how to paddle board from your knees. Make sure your feet are spread wide with your toes pointed out, and you have a good grip on the paddle. You’ll have more stability when kneeling than if you try to stand up right away.

Maintain A Good Stance

When you do start to learn paddleboarding from a stand-up position,  keep your feet wide apart and pointed out with one foot slightly ahead of the other. Make sure your knees are bent, keeping your balance low and centered over the board.

Practice Small Movements

Once you are comfortable in your stance, try making small movements with the paddle to get a feel for how it moves through the water. Make sure to keep your arms straight and elbows bent as you paddle.

Use Deep, Slow Strokes

When paddling, focus on using deep and slow strokes. This will maximize your control over the board and help you stay balanced. Keep in mind that each stroke should move the water away from the board while also pushing it forward.

Hold And Use The Paddle Properly

When holding the paddle, make sure your hands are positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Keep your arms straight and bent at the elbows as you move through the water. Make sure to switch sides between paddles to evenly distribute effort on both sides of your body.

Use Your Core

When paddling, use your core to help move the paddle through the water. Engaging your core muscles will help you stay balanced and coordinate your movements for an efficient stroke. Believe it or not, paddle boarding can be a great workout.

Practice Falling Off Your Paddle Board

Once you feel comfortable with the basics of paddle boarding, practice falling off the board. This will help you get used to the sensation and make sure that if you do fall off, you know what to expect.

Practice Getting Back Up

Not only will falling off the board help you understand what to expect, but it also allows you to practice getting back up on the board. Pull yourself up onto the board similarly as if you were exiting the side of a pool. Raise yourself to your knees and then proceed to your feet if you are comfortable.

Keep An Eye Out For Traffic

When you are out paddleboarding there are most likely others out enjoying the water as well. Whether it’s swimmers at a beach, fishermen, or other water sports enthusiasts, make sure to keep an eye out for any potential hazards or traffic.

Relax and Be Patient

Learning how to paddleboard takes time and practice. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get the hang of it right away. With patience and a few pointers, you’ll soon find yourself cruising through the water on your paddleboard.

Get in touch with us to rent a paddleboard on Lake Coeur D’Alene.

Enjoy!