6 Reasons to Take a SUP Lesson

Even if you have been paddling for a while, you can still benefit and learn from a guided Introduction to Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) class!

Equipment Knowledge

Thankfully, this sport doesn’t require much equipment to get started! However, it is still important to know what kind of equipment you should be using and what equipment is required. In Washington state all paddlers are required, by law, to have a life vest and a whistle on their board at all times (just like a boat!). Other types of equipment such as leashes and paddles are often used incorrectly. The type of leash you use, as well as how to wear it, is different depending on the type of water you are paddling in. As for paddles, almost all first time paddlers, or anyone who hasn’t been taught otherwise, hold their paddle backwards! Sizing your paddle is important too, we will show you how tall your paddle should be based on how tall you are to help you prevent injury and stroke more efficiently! Paddleboards themselves vary in many different sizes, some wider, some longer, some heavier and all of those are factors to consider when choosing a board to use.

Introduction to Stand-up Paddleboarding Lessons

Paddle Efficiency

Stand-up Paddleboarding is a very easy to learn sport, in fact, most people get the hang of it within their first 60 minutes. However, just as with every sport, there are tips and tricks to learn how to improve. Stroke technique is important to prevent injury and to learn how to paddle more efficiently. Turning is one of the main struggles first time paddlers have and we will go over many different types of turns and how to use them in different situations. Reaching, hinging, rotating, there are so many ways to improve your paddling, whether you are preparing for a race or just enjoying a paddling adventure.

Water Conditions

There are so many different bodies of water! It is essential to know what you are getting into. Are you paddling on a lake? On the ocean? In a river? There are high tides, low tides, currents, you name it! Northwest Paddleboarding is located on the Columbia River in eastern Washington, so we have a current. If you are out in the middle of the river, the current will sweep you away before you know it. If it is windy, the current is much stronger and sometimes it will take you in the wrong direction. Our area also has a large boating community, so it is important to know how to yield to them and know where they are and when. We are out on our water all the time so we schedule classes accordingly and are aware of the weather conditions. We would love to show you the best places to paddle and how to navigate our river safely!

Safety

All of the information listed above will help prepare you to stay safe when you are out on the water. In addition to those tips, we also teach our students’ self-rescue techniques. From getting back on your board if you fall off, to proper use of your safety equipment. The best safety advice we can give anyone is to never paddle alone! When you are in a SUP lesson you are in a safer environment to learn, as our classes have a lifeguard on duty and instructor trained in SUP rescue.

water safety, life jackets, whistles, paddle board safety

We can answer your questions!

If there is something we didn’t go over in class, you can always ask! This is our industry and we love to share! If you are interested in buying a paddleboard we can give you all the information you need to pick one that is right for you. We can teach you about the different anchoring systems if you want to get into SUP yoga.
Sign up for a class and take advantage of your instructor’s knowledge.

Join the SUP community
When you join a SUP class you join a community. You have the opportunity to meet people who share the same passion! Adventure awaits, sign up for a class this summer, try something new, we will see you on the water!

Our Introduction to Stand-Up Paddleboarding classes are offered multiple times a week through out the summer!

4 thoughts on “6 Reasons to Take a SUP Lesson

  1. SUP Board Gear says:

    I really enjoyed reading about the 6 reasons to take aSUP lesson on Northwest Paddleboarding’s website. It’s great to see the emphasis on safety and knowledge when it comes to stand-up paddleboarding.

    The first reason, equipment knowledge, is so important. Knowing the right equipment to use and how to properly use it ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. I appreciate that Northwest Paddleboarding highlights the Washington state law requiring life vests and whistles, as well as educating paddlers about leash and paddle usage.

    Improving paddle efficiency is a key benefit of taking a SUP lesson. It’s true that even though paddleboarding is easy to learn, there are techniques that can enhance the experience and prevent injury. Learning different stroke techniques and turning methods can make a huge difference in enjoying the sport to the fullest.

    Understanding water conditions is crucial for a safe paddleboarding experience. Northwest Paddleboarding’s location on the Columbia River provides a unique learning environment with its current and boating activity. Teaching students how to navigate and yield to other watercraft is essential for their safety.

    I appreciate the emphasis on safety throughout the post. From teaching self-rescue techniques to the importance of paddling with others, it’s clear that Northwest Paddleboarding prioritizes the well-being of their students. Having a lifeguard on duty during lessons adds an extra layer of security.

    Lastly, the sense of community that comes with taking a SUP lesson is a wonderful aspect. Building connections with others who share the same passion for paddleboarding creates a supportive and enjoyable environment.

    Overall, I think Northwest Paddleboarding’s commitment to safety, education, and community shines through in this post. It’s a great reminder of the benefits of seeking professional guidance and learning from experienced instructors. Kudos to Northwest Paddleboarding for providing such valuable information! Tom Leithner SUP Board Gear

  2. Janet Karback says:

    Will you please keep me abreast of paddle board classes this summer? What if we want to go to Costa Rica in April? We have paddle boards and have “played” on them but we certainly aren’t efficient! lol

    • Krista Patterson says:

      We won’t be offering any paddleboard classes next summer but we would love to have you join in on Costa Rica in April. I can teach you how to paddleboard there!
      I will send you an email so we can chat about the trip!

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