Introduction to Stand Up Paddleboarding Skills Course

Aim
Introduction to Stand Up Paddleboarding (“SUP-Intro”) introduces the novice to paddling a paddleboard in calm sheltered water.

Prerequisites
None.

Course length
2-3 hours, or more at instructor’s discretion. Successful participants will receive the “Introduction to Stand Up Paddling Skills Award.”

Class ratio
1 instructor: 6 participants.

Location
Enclosed and sheltered with easy landing options immediately present. This course can be conducted in a pool.

Conditions
Wind calm (< 8 knots) Sea state calm to rippled.

Assessment
Activities focus on individual safety and comfortable paddling along a calm shoreline. While there is a great deal to learn at this level, the activities should concentrate on personal progress and an awareness of the need for future learning. Paddlers should leave the course encouraged to continue their learning and aware of their individual limitations.

Overview
Safety skills
●    Falling off safely
●    Remounting the board
●    Use of a leash
●    Understanding weather and paddling conditions
Paddling skills
●    Lifting and carrying a board
●    Choosing and holding a paddle
●    Mounting a board at a beach or dock
●    Prone paddling
●    Paddling while kneeling
●    Standing Up
●    Paddling in a straight line
●    Forward Stroke
●    Braking/Reverse stroke
●    Sweep strokes
●    Paddling in windy and turbulent conditions; kneeling, sitting or prone

Knowledge
●    Board design
●    Board outfitting
●    Clothing
●    Safety Equipment
●    Paddles
●    Injury prevention
●    Equipment care
●    SUP resources
●    Transporting a SUP
●    SUP Heritage