Tips for paddle surfing and choosing the best board

El paddle surf It has quickly become a global trend due to its simplicity and the fun it offers as a form of outdoor exercise.

This sport allows nature lovers to enjoy the surroundings, stay active, and experience the tranquility that the water offers.

If you're looking to get started with paddleboarding or want to improve your skills, this article will offer helpful tips along with guidance on how to select the best board.

Introduction to paddle surfing

Before delving into the techniques and equipment, it's essential to understand the concept of paddleboarding. This sport involves standing on a board wider than a surfboard and paddling with a double-bladed paddle.

It can be practiced on lakes, rivers, and even the ocean. Paddleboarding offers everything from physical exercise to quality family time, and even allows you to enjoy the scenery.

Starting with a few lessons with a qualified instructor is always a good idea to learn the basic techniques and equipment. In a class, you'll understand balance, posture, and how to paddle efficiently. Water safety is also very important in paddleboarding, and you'll learn that as well.

Equipment needed

To practice the sport, you need, first of all, a good Paddle surf board. It's the most important because it affects stability and performance in the water. There are advantages to both inflatable and rigid boards.

As for the paddle, it should be lightweight and suitable for your height. A life jacket is also necessary for safety. If you're in deep water or aren't a strong swimmer, a life jacket provides additional buoyancy.

Finally, the leash is an element that connects the board to your leg so that, if you fall into the water, it doesn't move away from you.

Selecting the perfect location

Where you paddleboard can definitely affect your experience. As a beginner, choose calm waters and spots where there's less activity.

Lakes, gentle rivers, and coastal areas with small waves are great starting points. Avoid areas with heavy boat traffic or strong waves until you gain more confidence on the board. As you progress, you can try more challenging paddleboarding areas.

Maintaining balance

Balance is the most important element of paddleboarding. Stand in the center of the board with your feet parallel to the widest part of the board.

Keep your knees slightly bent and your torso straight to help distribute your weight. If you feel yourself tipping over, look to the horizon and shift your weight. Try balancing the board on the shore first; this will help you prepare for the water.

Additionally, proper rowing technique is essential to move smoothly through the water. Grip the oar with both hands, making sure the blade is completely submerged in the water.

To avoid excessive strain, use your core along with your arms. Not just your arms, as this will tire you out quickly. Execute the paddling motion in both directions to ensure a rounded stroke and allow you to move forward without difficulty. This also helps keep the paddleboard in a straight line.

Security issues

Paddleboarding requires the same safety precautions as any other sport. Always be sure to wear a life jacket, especially for beginners.

Pay attention to the wind and waves. If you start to see overcast conditions with dark clouds, as if the wind is increasing, be sure to get out of the water. Finally, always use the leash that connects the board to your foot. This helps bring the board back to you if you fall into the water.

Choosing the best board for you

To enjoy and progress, choosing the right board is very important. You should keep in mind:

• Size and volume. For greater stability, longer and wider boards are recommended for beginners, while over time and as you improve, you can opt for narrower and more maneuverable ones.
• Inflatable vs rigid: Inflatable boats are more practical to transport and store due to their shape. However, rigid boats excel in performance on the water. If you plan on long voyages or racing, a rigid boat would be the best option.

Clothing and sun protection you should wear

For swimming in warm waves, lycra and a technical T-shirt are ideal, but in cold water, neoprene is recommended.

Remember that sunscreen and sunglasses are very important, as are a hat or cap. When exercising, you must be very careful with the sun's most powerful rays.

In short, paddleboarding is a great way to exercise, and it also helps you reconnect with nature and yourself.

With the right mindset and the right equipment, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy this sport almost anywhere with water.