How To Paddle-SUP Strokes

Here's when the real fun begins. As a SUP beginner, there are three basics strokes that will help you get moving:

Forward Stroke

This basic stroke propels your board forward through the water.

Plant the paddle in the water by reaching about two feet forward, then push the blade all the way under the surface. Move the paddle back through the water to your ankle, then out of the water.

Keep your arms straight and twist from your torso as you paddle. Push down on the paddle grip with your top hand rather than pulling the paddle back with your lower arm. It's helpful for some people to think of pulling the board past the paddle rather than pulling the paddle through the water.

To go in a reasonably straight line, you'll need to alternate strokes on either side of the board. There's no set number of strokes per side; try about three or four strokes on one side, then switch to the other.

The more vertical you keep the paddle, the straighter you will go.

Reverse Stroke

The reverse stroke is simple to perform and can be used for slowing down, stopping and turning. It is essentially the opposite of the forward stroke.

If you're paddling on the right, reach back behind you and plant the paddle in the water near the tail of your board. Make sure the blade is all the way under the surface of the water.

Like with the forward stroke, keep your arms straight and twist from your torso rather than pulling the blade forward with your arms.

Doing the reverse stroke on the right side of your board will cause the nose of your board to turn to the right and vice versa.

Sweep Stroke

The sweep stroke is useful for turning your board while standing still or moving.

If you're paddling on the right, rotate your shoulders so that your right shoulder comes forward.

Reach forward and plant your paddle in the water, submerging the entire blade.

Sweep the paddle away from the board in a big arcing motion from the nose of the board to the tail by rotating your torso and using the leverage of your legs and hips.

Doing the sweep stroke on the right side of your board will turn the board to the left and vice versa.

Remember, like any new skill, stand-up paddleboarding takes practice. Enjoy the learning process and have fun on the water!