A Quick How-To Guide: Stand Up Paddle Boarding

Are you planning a getaway to Fort Lauderdale? Chances are, if you’ve been to the beach before, you already are a seasoned professional at sunbathing, swimming, and building sand castles. If you want to try something new, join the growing number of people who have found a new hobby with stand up paddle boards (SUPs). They are so easy and fun to use! Below is American Watersports‘ quick how-to guide for getting started on a SUP on your next beach vacation.

The Gear

As you prepare for your first exciting SUP excursion, make sure you have the right gear. It’s important to be prepared and to be safe.

The basics are:

Life jacket
Paddle
Stand up paddle board

You can leave your cell phone on the beach, but if you take it with you, make sure to have a waterproof case. If you get a SUP rental from us, we provide you with all the gear you need for a safe and fun outing.

The Technique

When you rent a stand up paddle board from us, our staff will provide a SUP lesson for you. It really is easy to get started.

How to Stand:

Get in the water to your knees
Grab the paddle board by the edges
Move to the center of the board on your knees
While still holding the edges of the board, move onto your feet (one at a time) where your knees currently are
Rise up slowly, knees bent, chest moving up, and then straighten your knees

How to Get Back on the SUP after a Fall:

Even the most experienced of paddle boarders fall into the water. If you do lose your balance on your SUP voyage, there is an easy way to get back on.

Get near the center of the paddle board
Grab the handle
Kick your legs while you pull yourself onto the board
Follow the “How to Stand” technique described above

The Fun

When you are on the SUP, enjoy your time! Once you get used to the technique, go at your own pace. You don’t need to show off for anyone, so take it slow or go the distance. It’s fun to go out with a friend or even go on a SUP tour of the area. We not only offer SUP rentals, we also have SUPs for sale for those who want to make it a regular part of their lifestyle.

If you are in the Fort Lauderdale area and are ready to try out a stand up paddle board, contact American Watersports online or call (954) 946-1811 for information on rentals. We also offer kayak rentals, jet ski rentals, and more. You now know the basic how-to of using a SUP. Now it’s time to go out and take to the open water!

Jon Carter