Coastal Surf - Stand Up Paddleboarding

Coastal Surf - Stand Up Paddleboarding Skills Course

Aim
Stand Up Paddleboarding Coastal Surf (“SUP-CS”) introduces the novice to paddling a paddleboard into moderate surf conditions ( <1m) in a coastal environment. The emphasis is on learning the fundamentals of entering and understanding the surf zone, introduction to tides and beach profiles, and a strong emphasis on safety and etiquette.

Prerequisites
Advanced Flatwater Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP-AF) course or equivalent experience.

Course length
4-6 hours, or more at instructor’s discretion. Successful participants will receive the “Stand Up Paddling Coastal Surf Skills Award.”

Class ratio
1 instructor: 6 participants.

Conditions
• Not exceeding moderate winds (12-19 knots)
• Combined sea state near 1-metre with a moderate, occasionally rough sea state.
• Surf near 1-meter.
• Current < 3 knots

Assessment
Evaluation is ongoing throughout each course. Participants can be evaluated through oral test, practical evaluation, written test and general observation. Participants will be graded Pass, Weak, or Fail in each category. “Pass” is required on all categories, but one “Weak” skill may be accepted at the discretion of the instructor.

Overview
Safety skills
•    Falling off safely
•    Remounting the board
•    Use of a leash
Paddling skills
•    Foot Positions and stance
•    Bracing
•    Surf Strokes
•    Catching Waves
•    Bottom Turns
•    Breaking through waves
Knowledge
•    Clothing
•    Board Design
•    Safety Equipment
•    Tides
•    Surf etiquette
•    Reading the surf zone
•    SUP Heritage