How to Paddle Surf

Paddle surfing is a trend among fans of water activities. HUIIKE paddle surf boards include everything you need to learn how to paddle surf safely. Enjoy this sport all year round and live the experience of the moment in the best company. But, before you jump into the water, here you will find everything you need to know to start paddle surfing.

What is paddle surfing?

Originally from the waters of the Pacific Ocean, paddle surfing has evolved over the years to become a recreational activity characterized by its adaptability and ease of learning. Also known as SUP or Stand Up Paddle, this popular water sport is practiced on a board similar to a surfboard using a paddle.

Paddle surfing requires practice and coordination of movements. The board is wider than the surfboard, so it offers greater stability, while the paddle is the tool that will allow you to move forward, backward or turn in the water.

Learning to paddle surf is very simple and requires little time to adapt to the use of the paddle board or maneuvers. In addition, it is a sport with benefits for the physical condition, in which almost all the muscles of the body are worked while enjoying an experience suitable for all audiences.

Where to paddle surf

Paddle surfing can be practiced in various aquatic environments, such as beaches, rivers, lakes, reservoirs and canals. Before embarking on the adventure, we recommend you consult the paddle surfing regulations where you can check everything you can and should do in this sport to make it safe and respectful of the environment.

Keep in mind that paddle surfing is an activity that is usually done in calm waters, so it is not recommended to practice it with rough seas or in windy conditions. Of course, it is also not advisable to paddle surf in low light or in bathing areas. It is always better to stay away from these areas to avoid accidents.

In addition, each environment where you can paddle surf requires a certain degree of experience and skills. If it is your first time, it is recommended that you enjoy this sport in a controlled and calm space, where you can continue learning how to paddle surf before you are ready to take the leap to the next level.

First steps

Before you get on the water and start paddling, it is important to prepare yourself. The first thing you will have to do, even before leaving home, is to eat well. You will have to do it at least two hours before and the most recommended foods are carbohydrates, which will give you enough energy to complete the route. Do not forget to hydrate yourself and carry water or some kind of isotonic drink for the whole session.

Before entering the water, you need to make some preparations. For example, adjust the height of the paddle surf paddle. To do this you should take as a reference your height with your arms outstretched. After assembling the paddle, place the paddle on the ground and set the length of the paddle until the end of the handle is at the height of your wrist with the arm extended upwards. The paddle should be between 18 cm and 25 cm above your head.

After inflating your inflatable paddle surf board, which you can do comfortably with the double action manual inflator, you must install the "leash". This tool has a safety function which is to prevent you from losing or moving away from the paddle board if you fall off it. 

The adjustable leash has a rope to attach it to the D-ring on the board, which you will find next to the valve. At the other end of the coiled cable is an adjustable ankle strap with Velcro closure to attach it to your ankle. 

Don't forget your drinks for the route and your valuables, which you can store in the 5-liter watertight bag and securely attach to the bungee cords at the bow of the board.

And you've got everything you need to get in the water!

How to enter the water

One of the keys to learning how to paddle surf is precisely that first step when you enter the water. To avoid damaging your board's keels, consider the depth of the water before setting the paddle board afloat. 

Follow the steps below to enter the water safely: 

1. Carry the board to the shore by holding it directly from the handle. 
2. Place the bow in the water and slide the board while keeping the stern (keel area) in the air.
3. Once there is sufficient water depth so that the keels do not hit the bottom (at least 40 cm or knee height), leave the board completely afloat.

To get on the paddle surf board you must do it on your knees. Place your knees on the EVA rubber surface, leaving the handle between your legs. The distance between your knees should be similar to the width of your shoulders, thus achieving optimal stability. In this position you will be able to use the oar, whose grip should be vertical, from the pole of the oar.

If it is your first time paddle surfing and you are not yet confident enough, you can try lying face down on the paddle surfboard and use your arms to propel yourself.

This position, although not as comfortable, will allow you to have maximum stability, greater control of the board and to familiarize yourself with it, understanding the way in which you will have to perform the movements. We advise you to leave the paddle on land for this first contact if you plan to return later, or, on the contrary, place it between your body and the board so that it remains firm and secure.

How to stand up paddle surf

In paddle surfing, the first few meters are usually done kneeling for safety reasons. This position gives you greater stability as the center of gravity is much lower. You can lower it even more if you sit on your legs, but you can also go directly on your knees. 

Keep in mind that the paddle surf board is wider and therefore more stable than a surfboard. Kneeling increases this stability and, in case of a fall in shallow areas, you will avoid possible injuries. It is also easier to get on the paddle surf board on your knees than standing up.

Standing up on the paddle surf board: step by step

But Stand Up Paddle Surfing, as its name suggests, is a sport that is practiced standing on the board. It is not mandatory, but the fun increases as you control the board while in an upright position.

How to stand up on the paddle surf board requires a few simple movements. While on your knees, rest your hands on the board while holding the paddle horizontally. Next, place one of your feet on the board, leaving the handle in the center, and repeat this motion with the other foot. At this point, your feet and hands are on the surface of the board.

It's time to stand up straight. Perform this movement with confidence, raising your torso until you are fully upright. Take the horizon as a reference point, which will help you maintain your balance, while bending your knees will transmit less vibrations and involuntary movements of your body to the board and increase stability. In addition, dipping the paddle into the water as soon as possible and starting to paddle will serve as a fulcrum, preventing you from struggling to keep your balance.

Useful tip

If there is a swell or some movement in the water, before standing up on the board, place the bow against the waves. This will give you more stability and confidence to stand up.

Where to put your feet on the board

The position of the feet on the paddle surf board directly affects its stability and maneuverability. Therefore, the neutral position is the most recommended for practicing this water sport.

In the neutral stance, your feet are in the center of the board, with the handle in the middle and your feet shoulder-width apart. With this stance, in which you should keep your knees slightly bent, you have a good balance between straight forward paddling and turning ability with simple movements.

By altering this position, the behavior of the board also changes. If you move your position forward (towards the bow), maneuverability and stability are reduced, but you will be able to follow a course more easily. Conversely, if you move your feet back (towards the stern), the turning ability of the board increases, but it becomes more difficult to stay on course.

How to paddle the board

Now it's time to paddle your board. A correct orientation of the paddle surf paddle is what will allow you to paddle successfully. The paddle blade has a certain degree of inclination in front of the pole, with a concave part that should be oriented towards the front. In this part you will find the HUIIKE logo, which can serve as a reference when paddling. 

The reason why paddle surf paddles have this slanted blade shape is for usability reasons, as it improves paddling reach and paddle release when recovering position, lifting less water at the end of the paddling motion and helping with the forward motion of the board when the paddle is vertical. 

There are paddles with more and less angle of inclination in the blade and its use depends on the type of paddle surfing you practice. Our paddle surf paddle 2 in 1 has a greater concavity with a lower degree of inclination in the blade to adapt to its use as a kayak paddle.

Rowing position, frequency and technique

Learning how to paddle a paddle surfboard requires some practice and maintaining a steady rhythm. A good method is to do a series of 3 or 4 paddles on each side and alternate paddles. This way, you will be able to stay on course without deviating from the route. 

Keep in mind that, in order to move forward, it is important that paddles are made close to the sides of the board. If you separate the paddle too far from the side of the board, you will cause the board to turn instead of moving forward. 

Also, the paddling motion should not be too long. Use the bow of the board as a reference to start paddling and finish when the paddle reaches your height. Short strokes are more effective than long paddles. Also make sure that the paddle is almost completely submerged in the water when you make the paddling motion or you will not be as efficient on each repetition.

Remember that to paddle surf you must:

1. Make short strokes with the paddle, close to the sides of the board. 
2. Perform sets of 3-4 repetitions alternating between one side of the board and the other.
3. Orient the paddle well to advance and submerge the paddle almost completely in the water.

Don't forget to follow these steps to be efficient when paddling a paddle surfboard. Otherwise, you will get tired before the end of your route and it will be more difficult to keep the rhythm.

Basic movements: moving forward and braking

On all paddle surf boards you must perform the same basic movements to be able to move. It is key to keep in mind that the principle of movement in paddle surfing is based on pushing the water to the opposite side you want to go. Therefore, if you want to go forward, you have to push the water backwards; while to go backwards you have to push the water forwards ('counter-race').

To achieve a uniform movement, you must first learn how to hold the paddle surf paddle. When standing on the board, one hand is placed on the T-handle and the other on the paddle shaft. The distance between your hands is defined by your shoulders. Take your shoulders as a reference and place your hands further apart, always respecting that one of your hands will go directly on the handle located at the end of the paddle.

A good way to find the exact spot to hold the oar with your hands is to place it over your head. Hold the handle with one hand and the oar pole with the other. Open or close your elbows until they are at a 90º angle and your hands are parallel to your head. This is a good reference for maintaining an optimal rowing posture.

Alternating hands when rowing

The position of the hands varies depending on which side you are rowing on. The hand that is on the same side on which you are rowing is positioned on the rowing pole. The other hand is on the handle. When you switch sides, alternate your hands. Although it may seem complicated, you will quickly see that if you do not change your hands, it is not possible to perform the rowing motion.

Useful tip

The upper arm in the rowing should be straight. If you bend your elbow, the movement will be performed by your arms, while if you keep it extended, the force will be transmitted by your torso, preventing you from fatigue.

When going backwards, the movement to be performed is the reverse of the forward movement. It is called a 'counterstroke' and is performed from a position farther away from your feet or knees, paddling towards the bow or, seen in another way, pushing the water towards the front. 

And when it's time to slow down, just put the paddle blade in the water and hold it firmly to generate resistance. You'll find that your speed quickly decreases and you'll soon come to a complete stop.

If you are going to paddle kneeling, it is important to keep in mind that you will not be able to grip the paddle as you would when standing, as it will be adjusted to paddle upright. Therefore, to paddle paddle surf kneeling we must directly grab the paddle shaft, although the hands can not be placed too close together or too far apart. The position is defined, once again, by your shoulders.

The hand that is higher (closer to the handle) is positioned with the palm facing your body, while the palm of the lower hand will face the front. In this way, you can exert a lever movement on the oar, allowing you to transmit the force of your arms and back with each stroke.

How to paddle surf

To move forward in paddle surfing you have to paddle passing the paddle close to the sides of the board, while, to turn you will have to move it away. There are three methods that differ in their maneuverability and the turning angle to be achieved:

• Open turn: by itself, the paddle surfboard will gently turn to the opposite side to the one you are paddling on when you paddle forward. So paddle alternating sides every 3 or 4 repetitions, correcting the trajectory progressively. If you paddle always on the same side, the board will be turning, drawing an open angle in the trajectory.
• Ciaboga: this maneuver allows you to make a tight turn to turn the board around. To do this, when you are static, make a semicircle turn from the bow to the stern, or vice versa, keeping the paddle away from the side of the board. You can also go from one side to the other by passing the paddle over the bow, which allows you to tack more in one motion. You will find that changing direction or making 90º turns with this technique is really easy and very useful when entering or exiting the water.
• Lateral turn: with this movement you will be able to move laterally with the board without it turning on itself. Simply pull the water towards you with the paddle. To do this, with your torso slightly turned to the side you want to move to, move the paddle away, put the paddle in the water and make a straight movement in which the paddle approaches perpendicularly towards your feet or knees. You will notice that the board will move without turning towards the point where you put the paddle in the water to paddle.

Paddle surfing requires a little more practice than just moving forward and backward. Train these moves first on your knees on the paddle board, in a quiet area, then repeat them standing up. Then repeat them standing up, and you'll see how easy it really is!

What muscles are exercised with paddle surfing?

Paddle surfing is a perfect sport to exercise almost every muscle in the body, as well as coordination, motor skills and balance. In the same way, it generates cardiovascular endurance, allows you to be in shape while it is an exercise with a low impact on your body physically, limiting the chances of injury. It is also a practice that helps relieve stress.

Muscularly, paddle surfing helps to exercise the arms, shoulders and back when working with the paddle. It increases the strength of your abdomen, which, along with your legs, are key to maintaining balance on the board. In addition, it helps strengthen the lower back, an area that for many people requires additional exercise; and the buttocks, toning both legs and arms.

How to get back on the board after falling into the water

In paddle surfing it is normal to fall off the board into the water, especially your first few times. Don't get frustrated! If we fall, we get back up. And in this case, we show you how to get back on the board.

Keep in mind that both the buoyancy vest and the leash are elements that help us to paddle surf safely. The first is responsible for keeping you afloat in deeper waters, while the second prevents the board from drifting away from you.

When that fall occurs, first of all stay calm. Remember that paddle surfing is a safe sport and that you have all the necessary equipment so that nothing can stop you from having fun. Therefore, once in the water, retrieve the paddle if you have released it during the fall, which is advisable whenever there is a risk of getting hit. 

The paddle is adjustable and has an aluminum structure that makes it resistant and lightweight (weighs 0.9 kg). It offers enough buoyancy for 10 seconds so that you can retrieve it without any problems once you are in the water. If you're just jumping in for a dip, you can secure the paddle using the board's bungee cords or leave it on the surface.

Tips for getting on the board

Once in the water, to get back on the board, stand next to it. At this point, you have two options to get back on the board:

• From the side: this is the easiest way to get on the board. Place the paddle on the board, pass your arms over it and hold on with your hands to the opposite side. Use your legs to propel you and with a movement with your arms, lift your torso onto the board. Once at this point, lift first one leg while turning and then the other. And you are back on board.
• From the stern: This second technique requires a little more skill. Stand at the stern of the board and, again, place the paddle on the board to secure it. With your hands, grab both sides of the paddle board and push yourself up with your legs and arms to bring your torso onto the board in short strokes. Repeat this several times until you are face down on the board. Once there, you can kneel or stand back up.

Steps to get out of the water with the board

To get out of the water with your paddle surf board you must take into account some aspects. The first and most important is the depth of the water. If we approach the coast or the shore, the depth decreases and increases the risk of hitting the keels with the bottom or against the rocks. Therefore, just as when you enter the water, get off the board once the depth is 40 or 50 centimeters.

Paddle the paddle board towards land, always making sure that the keels do not rub or hit against the bottom. At this point, lift the stern (where the keels are) and keep the board in the air until you reach the sand. Use the handle to pull the board out of the water.

How to place the paddle surf board

Once on the sand, positioning the paddle board correctly is key to avoid damage. The paddle board should be left on the ground, horizontally and with the top face down. This leaves the fins free, preventing them from being accidentally damaged.

An alternative is to leave the board supported vertically. In this case, make sure that it is secure and that there is no risk of it falling, as a bump can cause damage to the board itself and the keels. 

If you are going to store the paddle surfboard in a storage room or garage, the best way to place it is horizontally, on a shelf and always leaving the fins free to avoid damage. If you want to store it vertically, leaning against a wall or a piece of furniture, keep in mind that there is a possibility that it could slip and end up hitting. If you cannot store it horizontally, try to secure it with some kind of tie-down.

How to transport the paddle board

To transport the paddle surfboard you can do it easily using the handle that incorporates in the center. Place the lower part of the board (where the fins are) towards your body and the upper part towards the outside. Place it under your arm, gripping the handle with your hand. This allows you to have full control over the board - and take it wherever you want effortlessly!

Another option, especially if you are going to travel a longer distance with the board out of the water, is to use the carrying strap. This accessory is very practical, as it allows you to hang the board from your shoulder and free your hands. The paddle can be secured in position using the bungee cords. In addition, the board weighs only 9 kg, so you can carry it easily from one place to another.

Safety tips before you start paddle surfing

To know how to paddle surf like a pro, you must first consider some key safety issues to make your session a success:

• Consult the paddle surf regulations to find out everything you need to know about paddle surfing on beaches, rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs. 
• Although it is practiced in the water, in paddle surfing you can hit yourself with the paddle or the board. Therefore, if you lose stability, always try to fall into the water from the sides of the paddle board, never from the bow.
• Whenever you can, it is better to paddle surf on windless days, the experience will be more satisfying! Check the weather forecast and sea conditions first.
• Watch the wind direction. It is advisable to first move upwind (upwind) so that the return is downwind (downwind). This will reduce fatigue and make it less difficult to reach the shore.
• Beware of bathers. Paddle surf only in areas away from other boats and other people enjoying a swim.
• Get on the board once the water reaches your knees. Avoid standing up until the water is deep enough (at least 1 meter).
• Bring water, sunscreen and a life jacket. Don't forget to wear the leash that secures the board in case of a fall.
• Paddle surfing is always best with a partner. If you are going to paddle alone, inform someone of your plans and itinerary. Carry a cell phone in a waterproof case in case you need to make a call.

Discover the exciting world of paddle surfing with HUIIKE.

Life is a journey to be experienced!