Frequently asked questions
Yes! With a bit on instruction, most people can get on and enjoy a paddle board.
Having a lesson or two to learn the basic technique is the best way to start and will go a long way to helping you get the most out of SUPing.
You can get the basics in a few lessons. As with everything practise makes perferct. The better your techniques and the more you do, the more you will get out of it.
Boards come with weight capactities. Chosing the wrong board for your weight and size will make progression difficult,while the right board will enhance your progress.
There are many inflatable options out there at the moment. Some are better than others. There are some benefits to inflatable, ie: packing them in the boot of your car. However, on the water the ridigity of a hard board certainly has great benefits to your paddling.
A good board is important and so is a good paddle. The length, weight and quality of a paddle goes a long way to enhancing your paddle experience.
A leash is an important part of your safety as you are able to retrieve your board when you fall in. On a flat body of water like a river or marina, the baord may not move far and you can easily swim to retrieve it. In an ocean the wind and swell action can move the board away from you quickly. Having a leash attached will help you to pull your board back to you and allow you to get back on easily and quickly.
There are some great board options out there. It’s certainly worth trying out a bunch of boards and manufacturors before you spent money on a board. Boards cost a bit and you want to get the correct weight and length. This is important not just on the water, as you will need to load and unload your board from the roof of your car.
It’s certainly safer to get your technique together in calm, still water, like an inlet, or calm bay. Once you’ve been paddling a while and mastered some good techniques and are paddle fit, you can consider more ocean options.
1 – improve balance and stability for everyday activities and SUP (balance starts to deteriorate at age 30)!
2 – Build core strength
3 – A fun way to work out and get active e beyond the gyn and traditional workouts
4 – Build confidence to SUP on the open water
5– Improve and learn correct SUP techniques and movement patterns
6– HAVE FUN – it’s a great way to socialise with like-minded people
7 – Learn and improve movement and mobility to become a better SUP racer
8 – Try something different!
9 – An awesome way to cross train.
10 – SUP fitness is geared for EVERYONE!
There are a lot of options out there and a lot of brands to chose from. Speak to shop owners, do some online research, chat to your SUP coach and take your time to find what type of board will suite your needs. Some categories include race boards, fun boards, inflatables and wave riding boards. The shape of each of these would be different and made for specific disciplines.
How long is a piece of string?! There are many boards ranging from approx $200 for a soft top to top the range boards at about $3000. Yo ucan buy second hand ones or get brand new. It really depends on what your budget is and what you are looking for.
This depends on your swimming ability, water confidence and where you intend paddling. They are restrictive and can impact your paddle technique. However, safety always comes first. If you feel more confident using one, then it would be good to do so.
The season, weather conditions and wind all affect your comfort on the water. During winter you would want to wear a wetsuit or fleece rashvest. In the summer months you may get by with rashvest and leggings/boardies. Chances are quite good that you will fall in so wear something appropriate.
We’re all different – so wear what you feel comfortable in. If you are shivering and not enjoying yourself, then you need to rug up next time. You can always take layers off if needed.
A cap is a sensible option for the sun. Especially as summer kicks in. If you are wearing sunnies, a strap is recommended to stop you from losing them in the water. (we speak from experience!)
