Paddling SUP not only provides a fantastic core workout but strengthens the entire body. You also gain better endurance and, not least, balance! Plus, it is great fun and can be done anywhere there is water, as long as you have the right equipment.

So what should you consider before investing in a SUP?

The first thing you should think about is what type of water you plan to paddle in and what the purpose of the board is. Are you going to paddle in calm waters or along the coast where there are more waves? Will your board be used solely for exercise or more as a recreational board for the whole family? An allround board suits most people, whether you plan to use it for yoga or as a recreational board. If you instead want a slightly faster board and know that you will mostly use it for exercise, then a touring board will probably suit you better.

An allround board is somewhat wider and more stable, while a touring board is narrower and slightly longer. It also has a more pointed nose which cuts through the water better, providing faster speed and making it well suited for fitness paddling.

Are you a SUP beginner?

Then we recommend an allround board, which is slightly wider and more stable. In the beginning it can still be difficult to find your balance, but it becomes easier if you do it in the right order.

Start by attaching your foot leash around your foot. Then place the paddle across the board before kneeling down, just behind the board's center point. Make sure to place your legs on either side of the carry handle. This is a good starting position to find your balance before slowly standing up one foot at a time. If you also focus your gaze forward, you will find it easier to maintain your balance.

Now it is time to start paddling. Do not forget to keep a straight back with slightly bent knees. Grip the paddle handle at the top with one hand and the other hand on the lower part of the shaft. Note that the paddle blade should face away from you and not toward you, as might feel more natural. Now you can gently take long, slow paddle strokes. Make sure the entire blade is below the water surface for as long a distance as possible during each stroke.

You should also consider where you plan to store it

If you choose an inflatable SUP, it takes up less space and you can bring it anywhere – even when traveling abroad. Everything you need for paddling fits easily in the durable backpack included with the purchase.

The advantage of a fiberglass board is that you do not need to inflate it and you get out on the water faster. However, it is more fragile than an inflatable one and requires a bit more storage space, but if you live close to the water and only plan to store it in one place, this might be the best option for you. Additionally, fiberglass is generally faster and the board glides more smoothly across the water, which in itself provides an even more enjoyable experience.

Make sure you have the right equipment

Finally, you need to make sure you have the right equipment so that you get the most comfortable paddling experience possible. The four most important accessories are paddle, fin, foot leash and life jacket. If you buy a complete inflatable SUP package, everything is included except the life jacket. Everything is also packed in a convenient and durable backpack. If you instead choose a fiberglass board, only the fin is included and you will need to purchase the other accessories separately.

Which paddle should I choose?

Which paddle you should choose depends of course largely on how much and how you plan to paddle. An aluminum paddle works perfectly fine, but if you plan to use the board more for fitness paddling, a fiberglass paddle or carbon fiber paddle may be preferable as it is both faster, lighter and more fun with a lighter paddle.

Paddling is something virtually anyone can learn, but if you want to take your paddling to the next level, SUP yoga might be for you. During the summer we offer both guided beginner tours and SUP yoga classes where you get to learn more about exploring the interplay between your body and the board.

Want more tips and ideas about SUP paddling?

Want tips and ideas about different boards or would you like to recommend a particular spot that is especially great for paddling? Join the group “Stand Up Paddleboard Sweden” on Facebook and share your tips and experiences. There are many members in the group sharing their experiences, and we are especially happy when beautiful photos with Havspaddeln boards appear among the posts.

Fun fact
Every year, both national and world championships are held in SUP paddling