How To Paddleboard <video coming soon>
How to Paddle: Its very important to know the basics of paddleboarding. Balance is key! Begin in the center of the board on your hands and knees (straddling the carry handle). Place your paddle flat across the board in front of you.You may want to start out in a kneeling or sitting position. Grab your paddle and attempt a few strokes on each side. Once you are comfortable, from the kneeling position, move your feet to where your knees are and stand up by raising your chest and extending your legs to get in the standing position. To continue to balance, stand over the carry handle with your knees slightly bent and your feet hip-width-distance apart to stay stable. Look straight ahead at the horizion rather than down at your feet. Don’t forget to keep those knees slightly bent then paddle on!
How to Stop: Plant your paddle blade behind you in the water and pull forward to act as a break.
How to Turn: (while moving) Paddle in a wide, half circle arc from the front of the board back to the tail. Paddling on the right turns you to the left and paddling on the left turns you to the right! For a quick sharp pivot turn, step back toward the tail to lift the nose, then sweep the paddle forward to spin around quickly.
How to Dismount: Do NOT let go of your paddle! Drop to your hands and knees to the center of the board. Slide or step off into the water while holding your leash and paddle. You may then secure the paddle under the ropes on the board.
How to Remount After a Fall: While holding your paddle, swim to the middle of the board. NEVER try to climb on the back or front. Grab the carry handle with one hand and reach to the far edge (rail) with your other hand. Let your legs float up to the surface behind you. Kick your legs, while pulling your chest across the deck. Once your torso is on the board, swing your knees to the middle to catch your balance.
IMPORTANT: ALL paddlers must keep their life vest on at ALL times. Although we encourage you to explore the area, please avoid the main central boating areas for safety. HAVE FUN!! Try some head stands, do some yoga, practice swapping boards with your buddy. Remember you are here to let loose and enjoy your experience!