Paddleboarding Tips: Learn To Paddleboard This Summer in Charleston, SC
With summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to learn how to paddleboard! Enjoy these easy, quick tips from local paddleboarding and water sport expert, Stu Schuck. Get ready to experience the South Carolina lowcountry waterways in a fun new way!
Quick Tips: How-To Paddleboard
The Board:
Choose a board that is stable for your weight. Your excursion operator will be able to match you accordingly.
Hold paddle correctly. Position hands shoulder-width apart and make sure the angle of the blade is pointed forward to the nose of board.
Find a "sweet spot" on board. Start out on your knees before you stand, and place feet (or knees) on either side of handle, which is in center of board.
Stance:
Keep your body loose with your feet parallel and knees bent. Keep the paddle in the water for balancing aid.
Paddle technique:
Reach! Reach! Reach! Place the blade as far forward towards the front of the board as possible in the catch phase of the stroke.
Keep your arms straight as you start the drive phase of your stroke. This will force you to use your body’s core. The power stroke is 90% body power and only 10% arms.
Minimize your movements. Release the blade when it comes parallel to your feet, and keep the paddle blade close to the water and your top hand close to your eyes as you start to reach again.
Turning:
Practice your outside turn and reverse paddle turn.
Safety:
Fall away from the board (it's okay to fall and likely to happen as a beginner).
Should you find yourself in an inopportune situation, go to your knees.
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!
For more information on paddleboarding or to book a paddleboarding outing, contact Wild Dunes’ Island Adventures Outfitters at 843.886.2109.
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