Do I Need Sup Lessons? 4 Things a Stand Up Paddle Beginner Should Know
Anyone can figure it out for themselves if they learn the basics of how to get on a standup paddle board, how properly positioning and balance on the board, how to paddle and turn the board correctly, and SUP safety.
When first getting started at stand up paddleboarding, it can appear to be a daunting task to try to learn by yourself, several skills can be challenging to figure out alone; that is why at iPaddle we offer SUP lessons for beginners and intermediate paddlers . But if you would like to try it by yourself here are some basic tips that will help you learn how to standup paddle.
These SUP tips will give you the four primary things you need to be on the water, then you can get out there and experiment and teach yourself. You’ll probably fall off a time or ten, but who cares? I’m sure you’ll have your leash, whistle and life jacket to stay safe and get back on the board.
Getting on a Paddleboard From a Dock
To get on your paddleboard from a dock, start by putting the paddleboard in the water with your leash already on. This ensures that your board won’t float away while you are trying to get on. Once your board is in the water, place your paddle in the middle of the board and slide onto your board, staying on your knees and in the center of the SUP. This is very important to keep your balance. Once on the board and balanced, remain on your board and paddle away from the dock on your knees. You don’t want to try to stand up until you are far enough from the dock, so you won’t hit it if you fall.
Getting on a Paddleboard From the Shore
This is the easiest way to get on your SUP. Take your SUP into about knee-deep water. You want to make sure you are deep enough for the fin not to drag when you get on. From the side of your SUP, kneel on your board facing forward about the carry handle. Keep your mass centered and low. Stay this way, and get a feel for the board.
Getting on a Paddleboard From the Water (After Falling In)
Let’s assume that you fall off your board. Getting back on is a piece of cake. Just swim back to the board, or pull it to you with your leash. From the side of the board, reach up and grab the carry handle and, with a simultaneous big kick, reach across the board with your other hand, grab the opposite rail, and pull yourself onto the board into a lying down position. Re-position yourself so that you can get to your knees.
So, in all three of these examples, you end up on your knees. But this is a STAND-UP paddleboard, you say. So let’s tackle how to stand up next.
Stand Up Paddle Beginner Should Know
2. Position on the SUP and balance
To stand up on a SUP from your knees, make sure you are near the grab handle and in the center of the board. Keep your hands on the board in front of you as you bring one foot onto the board. Do the same with the other foot and slowly stand. Make sure to keep your feet about shoulder length apart and equidistance from each rail.
That’s all there is to it. It might take a few practice times, but you’ll get the hang of it.
3. Paddling and turning
Ok, now you are on your feet with your paddle in your hand. When paddling, make sure the concave part of the paddle points forward. If your paddle were a spoon, that would be the part that holds your cereal. It doesn’t seem quite right, but the physics seem to work out. Hey, if you don’t like to hold it that way, then don’t. You’ll still get where you’re going, just not as efficiently.
So with the paddle in hand, reach forward on either side and retrieve the paddle straight back. This will help you go straighter. To do this, try to keep the hand on the handle directly over the hand holding the shaft. This is called stacking your hands.
Two easy ways to turn are sweeping your stroke out wide and reversing your stroke on the opposite side than you want to turn.
To turn using the sweep stroke, start your forward stroke just as you would a straight stroke, but instead of pulling straight back, reach your paddle out wide in a “sweeping” motion. Your hands will not be stacked when you do this. This stroke will turn you slowly to the opposite side as the paddle.
To turn a bit faster, simply use a reverse stroke on the opposite side of the board than you want to turn.
4. Safety
Since you are just starting, choose a location that doesn’t have much current, wind, and waves. The perfect place would be a calm body of water without any boat traffic like our ramp at iPaddle.
Make sure to wear your safety equipment. You’ll l need to make sure you either have onboard or are wearing a properly sized life jacket or pfd. Make sure you also use a leash with your paddleboard and a whistle. It will keep your board close, even if you kick it away when you fall off.
Don’t worry if you let go of your paddle when you fall in. It will float. Just get back to your board, get back on, and use your arms to paddle to retrieve your paddle.
Final Thoughts
Alright now. You have the basics. Get that SUP and hit the water. Be safe out there. Let’s see…a few last-minute tips.
Turn your board, so the bow (nose) hits waves first. A SUP is very unstable when wakes or waves hit it from the side.
Seriously, wear a leash. Your board can kick yards away from you if you wipe out.
And lastly, don’t get discouraged.
Is it hard to learn to SUP? That question gets a big “It Depends…” For most people, learning the basics can be done in a few minutes, and it only takes a little while more to feel comfortable. If you would like a Stand Up Paddleboard lessonbook one at iPaddle, we offer SUP lessons for groups or Private SUP classes.
I had an incredible experience during my third stand-up paddleboard lesson with Ipaddle Miami. Aymee, my instructor, was exceptional, offering clear instructions and making the learning process enjoyable for everyone, regardless of skill level. The location boasts stunning views of Miami's coastline, top-notch equipment, and outstanding customer service. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddleboarder, I highly recommend Ipaddle Miami for a fantastic day on the water. Aymee's dedication and expertise and the warm hospitality of the owner, Manny, create an unforgettable experience, and I can't wait to return for more adventures. In summary, Ipaddle Miami is the go-to place in Miami for stand-up paddleboarding. With a friendly and professional team, breathtaking views, and expert instruction from Aymee, it's an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the ocean while having a great time on the water. Thank you to owners Manny and Aymee for providing...read moreI had an incredible experience during my third stand-up paddleboard lesson with Ipaddle Miami. Aymee, my instructor, was exceptional, offering clear instructions and making the learning process enjoyable for everyone, regardless of skill level. The location boasts stunning views of Miami's coastline, top-notch equipment, and outstanding customer service. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddleboarder, I highly recommend Ipaddle Miami for a fantastic day on the water. Aymee's dedication and expertise and the warm hospitality of the owner, Manny, create an unforgettable experience, and I can't wait to return for more adventures. In summary, Ipaddle Miami is the go-to place in Miami for stand-up paddleboarding. With a friendly and professional team, breathtaking views, and expert instruction from Aymee, it's an absolute must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the ocean while having a great time on the water. Thank you to owners Manny and Aymee for providing such an incredible experience. Take advantage of this fantastic experience!read less
Julio A
9/08/2023 - Google
I recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at iPaddleMiami, and once again, it was an exceptional lesson. Aymee has continued to impress me with her dedication to teaching and her ability to enhance my paddleboarding skills. Having already experienced her fantastic instruction in my first lesson, I was eager to see how Aymee would help me progress further. To my delight, she went above and beyond in tailoring the lesson to my needs and helping me fine-tune my techniques. Her keen eye for detail and her patient guidance were instrumental in my growth as a paddleboarder. During this lesson, Aymee shared advanced tips and techniques that I hadn't encountered before. Her ability to break down complex maneuvers into manageable steps made learning them not only possible but also enjoyable. It's evident that she takes immense pride in her students' improvement, and her dedication...read moreI recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at iPaddleMiami, and once again, it was an exceptional lesson. Aymee has continued to impress me with her dedication to teaching and her ability to enhance my paddleboarding skills. Having already experienced her fantastic instruction in my first lesson, I was eager to see how Aymee would help me progress further. To my delight, she went above and beyond in tailoring the lesson to my needs and helping me fine-tune my techniques. Her keen eye for detail and her patient guidance were instrumental in my growth as a paddleboarder. During this lesson, Aymee shared advanced tips and techniques that I hadn't encountered before. Her ability to break down complex maneuvers into manageable steps made learning them not only possible but also enjoyable. It's evident that she takes immense pride in her students' improvement, and her dedication to my progress was truly appreciated. Manny, the owner of iPaddleMiami, continued to exemplify his welcoming and community-oriented spirit. His genuine interest in his customers' experiences is a testament to the welcoming environment he has created at iPaddleMiami. It's no wonder this place attracts people from all walks of life.read less
Julio N.
9/08/2023 - Yelp
I recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at iPaddleMiami, and once again, it was an exceptional lesson. Aymee has continued to impress me with her dedication to teaching and her ability to enhance my paddleboarding skills. Having already experienced her fantastic instruction in my first lesson, I was eager to see how Aymee would help me progress further. To my delight, she went above and beyond in tailoring the lesson to my needs and helping me fine-tune my techniques. Her keen eye for detail and her patient guidance were instrumental in my growth as a paddleboarder. During this lesson, Aymee shared advanced tips and techniques that I hadn't encountered before. Her ability to break down complex maneuvers into manageable steps made learning them not only possible but also enjoyable. It's evident that she takes immense pride in her students' improvement, and her dedication...read moreI recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at iPaddleMiami, and once again, it was an exceptional lesson. Aymee has continued to impress me with her dedication to teaching and her ability to enhance my paddleboarding skills. Having already experienced her fantastic instruction in my first lesson, I was eager to see how Aymee would help me progress further. To my delight, she went above and beyond in tailoring the lesson to my needs and helping me fine-tune my techniques. Her keen eye for detail and her patient guidance were instrumental in my growth as a paddleboarder. During this lesson, Aymee shared advanced tips and techniques that I hadn't encountered before. Her ability to break down complex maneuvers into manageable steps made learning them not only possible but also enjoyable. It's evident that she takes immense pride in her students' improvement, and her dedication to my progress was truly appreciated. Manny, the owner of iPaddleMiami, continued to exemplify his welcoming and community-oriented spirit. His genuine interest in his customers' experiences is a testament to the welcoming environment he has created at iPaddleMiami. It's no wonder this place attracts people from all walks of life.read less
Jnunez8480
9/08/2023 - TripAdvisor
2nd SUP lesson I recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at iPaddleMiami, and once again, it was an exceptional lesson. Aymee has continued to impress me with her dedication to teaching and her ability to enhance my paddleboarding skills. Having already experienced her fantastic instruction in my first lesson, I was eager to see how Aymee would help me progress further. To my delight, she went above and beyond in tailoring the lesson to my needs and helping me fine-tune my techniques. Her keen eye for detail and her patient guidance were instrumental in my growth as a paddleboarder. During this lesson, Aymee shared advanced tips and techniques that I hadn't encountered before. Her ability to break down complex maneuvers into manageable steps made learning them not only possible but also enjoyable. It's evident that she takes immense pride in her students' improvement, and her dedication...read moreI recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at iPaddleMiami, and once again, it was an exceptional lesson. Aymee has continued to impress me with her dedication to teaching and her ability to enhance my paddleboarding skills. Having already experienced her fantastic instruction in my first lesson, I was eager to see how Aymee would help me progress further. To my delight, she went above and beyond in tailoring the lesson to my needs and helping me fine-tune my techniques. Her keen eye for detail and her patient guidance were instrumental in my growth as a paddleboarder. During this lesson, Aymee shared advanced tips and techniques that I hadn't encountered before. Her ability to break down complex maneuvers into manageable steps made learning them not only possible but also enjoyable. It's evident that she takes immense pride in her students' improvement, and her dedication to my progress was truly appreciated. Manny, the owner of iPaddleMiami, continued to exemplify his welcoming and community-oriented spirit. His genuine interest in his customers' experiences is a testament to the welcoming environment he has created at iPaddleMiami. It's no wonder this place attracts people from all walks of life.read less
Shoota 305
8/28/2023 - Google
I recently had the pleasure of taking a stand-up paddling class with the amazing instructor, Amy, and it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. Amy's passion for the sport was palpable from the moment the class began, and it truly made the entire session come alive. One of the standout aspects of Amy's teaching style was her clear and concise instructions. Her ability to explain the techniques and maneuvers needed for stand-up paddling made the learning process smooth and enjoyable. Her guidance was easy to follow, even for a beginner like me. What truly impressed me was Amy's dedication to the smallest details. She had an incredible knack for identifying and correcting even the tiniest mistakes, all while maintaining an incredibly patient and encouraging demeanor. Her love for the sport was evident in her commitment to ensuring that each participant felt comfortable and confident on the water. After this...read moreI recently had the pleasure of taking a stand-up paddling class with the amazing instructor, Amy, and it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. Amy's passion for the sport was palpable from the moment the class began, and it truly made the entire session come alive. One of the standout aspects of Amy's teaching style was her clear and concise instructions. Her ability to explain the techniques and maneuvers needed for stand-up paddling made the learning process smooth and enjoyable. Her guidance was easy to follow, even for a beginner like me. What truly impressed me was Amy's dedication to the smallest details. She had an incredible knack for identifying and correcting even the tiniest mistakes, all while maintaining an incredibly patient and encouraging demeanor. Her love for the sport was evident in her commitment to ensuring that each participant felt comfortable and confident on the water. After this class, I'm eagerly looking forward to purchasing more sessions. Amy's expertise and teaching style have ignited a newfound interest in stand-up paddling for me. I'm genuinely grateful to have had her as my instructor, and I can't wait to continue improving my skills under her guidance. If you're looking for a stand-up paddling class that's not only informative but also a whole lot of fun, I wholeheartedly recommend Amy's classes. Her passion, attention to detail, and exceptional teaching approach make for an unforgettable experience.read less
For nearly a decade we have prided ourselves on providing the most enjoyable kayak and stand up paddle experiences for locals and tourists. Pro or novice, we have something for you! Come experience #ipaddlemiami @miamidadeparks
A huge thanks to @miamidesignshop for the new signage!
SUP Classes for any age or level, not only you will learn how to paddle with proper technique, but you will have tons of fun. Book your class with our certified SUP Instructor @aymeevp, she will cater a class fit for you.
🥳🥳🥳Come celebrate your born day with us for FREE! Invite your friends and family for an additional 20% off. 🎂🎂🎂
BOOK ON BIO 🥳 ⬆️
******* Must present a valid ID with proof of birthday on day of reservation. Your reservation must be made to validate your friends reservation at discount at time of purchase.
Celebrate Independence Day on the waters of Biscayne Bay overlooking the Fireworks Show
4th OF JULY SMOKE ON THE WATER PADDLE TOUR 8:30pm - 10pm
💥🇺🇸🎆
We have the best view of multiple fireworks shows in all of Miami! Join us as we paddle around Biscayne Bay and watch Fireworks from Miami Beach, Downtown and Bayfront Park from the comfort of our kayak or paddleboard. Refreshments included.
Super nice place. The Kayaks are in good condition and Mani does a super job....read moreSuper nice place. The Kayaks are in good condition and Mani does a super job. Thanks, I’ll come back ! Balthazarread less
Julio A
9/08/2023 - Google
I recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at...read moreI recently had the privilege of experiencing my second stand-up paddleboarding lesson with Aymee at iPaddleMiami, and once again, it was an exceptional lesson. Aymee has continued to impress me with her dedication to teaching and her ability to enhance my paddleboarding skills. Having already experienced her fantastic instruction in my first lesson, I was eager to see how Aymee would help me progress further. To my delight, she went above and beyond in tailoring the lesson to my needs and helping me fine-tune my techniques. Her keen eye for detail and her patient guidance were instrumental in my growth as a paddleboarder. During this lesson, Aymee shared advanced tips and techniques that I hadn't encountered before. Her ability to break down complex maneuvers into manageable steps made learning them not only possible but also enjoyable. It's evident that she takes immense pride in her students' improvement, and her dedication to my progress was truly appreciated. Manny, the owner of iPaddleMiami, continued to exemplify his welcoming and community-oriented spirit. His genuine interest in his customers' experiences is a testament to the welcoming environment he has created at iPaddleMiami. It's no wonder this place attracts people from all walks of life.read less
Shoota 305
8/28/2023 - Google
I recently had the pleasure of taking a stand-up paddling class with the amazing instructor,...read moreI recently had the pleasure of taking a stand-up paddling class with the amazing instructor, Amy, and it was an experience that exceeded all expectations. Amy's passion for the sport was palpable from the moment the class began, and it truly made the entire session come alive. One of the standout aspects of Amy's teaching style was her clear and concise instructions. Her ability to explain the techniques and maneuvers needed for stand-up paddling made the learning process smooth and enjoyable. Her guidance was easy to follow, even for a beginner like me. What truly impressed me was Amy's dedication to the smallest details. She had an incredible knack for identifying and correcting even the tiniest mistakes, all while maintaining an incredibly patient and encouraging demeanor. Her love for the sport was evident in her commitment to ensuring that each participant felt comfortable and confident on the water. After this class, I'm eagerly looking forward to purchasing more sessions. Amy's expertise and teaching style have ignited a newfound interest in stand-up paddling for me. I'm genuinely grateful to have had her as my instructor, and I can't wait to continue improving my skills under her guidance. If you're looking for a stand-up paddling class that's not only informative but also a whole lot of fun, I wholeheartedly recommend Amy's classes. Her passion, attention to detail, and exceptional teaching approach make for an unforgettable experience.read less
Jelena Tairovci
8/27/2023 - Google
Great stuff, so friendly and kind, you will enjoy…highly recommended!!
Noah McCauley
8/19/2023 - Google
Great time paddle boarding with friends! Great tour guides and a really fun time.
Lori
8/03/2023 - Google
Manny and the crew are amazing! Love the waters, 🐬🐬 swimming right by as you...read moreManny and the crew are amazing! Love the waters, 🐬🐬 swimming right by as you enjoy your day @iPaddle picnic, kayak, and training if you need. Night tours are so cool.read less
Gil Sever
7/18/2023 - Google
I took my first SUP lesson with Aymee and it was a great experience. Aymee...read moreI took my first SUP lesson with Aymee and it was a great experience. Aymee was was super professional and adapted the lesson to my personal capabilities. I stood up and rowed at the end of the lesson and I immediately booked my next lesson. The equipment and location is also awesome and Manny the owner was also very friendly and helpful. I totally recommend doing it!read less
Carisse Zorrilla
7/05/2023 - Google
Such a great kayak day! I loved how they gave us so many tips and...read moreSuch a great kayak day! I loved how they gave us so many tips and ensure we felt we knew everything to have a successful day. Will recommend to anyone!read less
Timothy Epic Games
6/21/2023 - Google
The guy who helped us was super nice and it was a great time.
Joseph Franco
6/13/2023 - Google
Awesome Experience; we were able to kayak to 3 different islands without getting close to...read moreAwesome Experience; we were able to kayak to 3 different islands without getting close to many boats. Our guide was fun and informed of us everything for a great time!read less
Judith Siegal
6/12/2023 - Google
This was a fantastic experience for our family. The instructions were clear and helpful, and...read moreThis was a fantastic experience for our family. The instructions were clear and helpful, and it simply could not have been better!read less
Maravue R
6/10/2023 - Google
Really loved the experience and the instructor was amazing!
Rose Leon
6/07/2023 - Google
10/10 would recommend the first time I used their delivery service to kayak to stiltsville...read more10/10 would recommend the first time I used their delivery service to kayak to stiltsville from Bill Baggs state park w/ my boyfriend for my bday and we recently went on their kayak full moon tour with our family, even though the weather was bad they gave it a chance and waited it out, Martin and Manny were awesome, we will definitely be coming back!read less
Юрий Зайка
6/07/2023 - Google
Went for the night tour with Martin and it was exceptional! He is so knowledgeable...read moreWent for the night tour with Martin and it was exceptional! He is so knowledgeable about the area, always pointing out wildlife and very friendly! It was a pleasant time to spend with him kayaking. P.S. since I was the only one on the tour, he adjusted it up to my willings, so much thank you for that Martin! 🙂read less
Armando Del Risco
5/31/2023 - Google
Súper
Daniella Puig
5/27/2023 - Google
Today my boyfriend rented a double kayak for two hours. Martin was super nice and...read moreToday my boyfriend rented a double kayak for two hours. Martin was super nice and accommodating, the views from the third island are truly worth it.read less
Miguel Ángel Alarcon
5/27/2023 - Google
The best place and the best teacher ! Period ! Book it now ! Dale...read moreThe best place and the best teacher ! Period ! Book it now ! Dale don’t wait ! Book your session now !!!read less
James Huang
5/27/2023 - Google
I recently rented kayaks from iPaddle, and it was an outstanding experience. Martin was incredibly...read moreI recently rented kayaks from iPaddle, and it was an outstanding experience. Martin was incredibly kind and patient in explaining the route to us, considering we were first-time kayakers. He took great care to ensure our comfort and provided us with all the necessary equipment. Martin's guidance and presence made us feel safe and confident throughout the trip. We had a truly unforgettable adventure on the water, thanks to Martin's expertise and exceptional customer service. I highly recommend iPaddle for an amazing kayaking experience.read less
Sebastian Fonseca
5/24/2023 - Google
It was great experience! Martin was an amazing instructor!
Patrick Dugarte
5/24/2023 - Google
Great host and instructor, Martin showed us the best route for our goal and it...read moreGreat host and instructor, Martin showed us the best route for our goal and it was an amazing trip in the bayread less
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Balthazar Toupart
Super nice place. The Kayaks are in good condition and Mani does a super job. Thanks, I’ll come back ! Balthazar - 11/19/2023
Jelena Tairovci
Great stuff, so friendly and kind, you will enjoy…highly recommended!! - 8/27/2023
Noah McCauley
Great time paddle boarding with friends! Great tour guides and a really fun time. - 8/19/2023
Lori
Manny and the crew are amazing! Love the waters, 🐬🐬 swimming right by as you enjoy your day @iPaddle picnic, kayak, and training if you need. ...read moreManny and the crew are amazing! Love the waters, 🐬🐬 swimming right by as you enjoy your day @iPaddle picnic, kayak, and training if you need. Night tours are so cool.read less - 8/03/2023
Gil Sever
I took my first SUP lesson with Aymee and it was a great experience. Aymee was was super professional and adapted the lesson to my personal capabilities. I stood...read moreI took my first SUP lesson with Aymee and it was a great experience. Aymee was was super professional and adapted the lesson to my personal capabilities. I stood up and rowed at the end of the lesson and I immediately booked my next lesson. The equipment and location is also awesome and Manny the owner was also very friendly and helpful. I totally recommend doing it!read less - 7/18/2023
Carisse Zorrilla
Such a great kayak day! I loved how they gave us so many tips and ensure we felt we knew everything to have a successful day. Will recommend to anyone! - 7/05/2023
Timothy Epic Games
The guy who helped us was super nice and it was a great time. - 6/21/2023
Joseph Franco
Awesome Experience; we were able to kayak to 3 different islands without getting close to many boats. Our guide was fun and informed of us everything for a great time! - 6/13/2023
Judith Siegal
This was a fantastic experience for our family. The instructions were clear and helpful, and it simply could not have been better! - 6/12/2023
Maravue R
Really loved the experience and the instructor was amazing! - 6/10/2023
Rose Leon
10/10 would recommend the first time I used their delivery service to kayak to stiltsville from Bill Baggs state park w/ my boyfriend for my bday and we recently went...read more10/10 would recommend the first time I used their delivery service to kayak to stiltsville from Bill Baggs state park w/ my boyfriend for my bday and we recently went on their kayak full moon tour with our family, even though the weather was bad they gave it a chance and waited it out, Martin and Manny were awesome, we will definitely be coming back!read less - 6/07/2023
Юрий Зайка
Went for the night tour with Martin and it was exceptional! He is so knowledgeable about the area, always pointing out wildlife and very friendly! It was a pleasant time...read moreWent for the night tour with Martin and it was exceptional! He is so knowledgeable about the area, always pointing out wildlife and very friendly! It was a pleasant time to spend with him kayaking. P.S. since I was the only one on the tour, he adjusted it up to my willings, so much thank you for that Martin! 🙂read less - 6/07/2023
Armando Del Risco
Súper - 5/31/2023
Daniella Puig
Today my boyfriend rented a double kayak for two hours. Martin was super nice and accommodating, the views from the third island are truly worth it. - 5/27/2023
Miguel Ángel Alarcon
The best place and the best teacher ! Period ! Book it now ! Dale don’t wait ! Book your session now !!! - 5/27/2023