Paddling on a stand-up paddleboard is a peaceful way to explore the waterways. However, it does require a good sense of balance. Irrespective of the type of water you’re paddling across, you’ll need to master your balance for a fulfilling aquatic experience. Here are 10 expert tips for balancing on a paddleboard so you can stay safe and dry.
Tips for Balancing on a Paddleboard
1. Keep your paddle in the water
You can use your paddle to help you maintain stability on your board. Keeping your paddle in the water and using it actively creates a tripod effect that helps to keep you balanced. The forward momentum you create as you paddle will naturally stabilise the board.
2. Adopt a low stance.
To keep yourself steady, bend your knees slightly and keep your body closer to the board. This slightly crouched position will lower your centre of gravity, which makes it easier to maintain balance on your board and to quickly adjust to any shifts in movement.
3. Stay relaxed.
Tension in your body can throw you off balance, therefore you should keep your muscles relaxed, especially in your legs and shoulders. When you adopt a relaxed stance it will be easier to adjust to the movements of the board and any changes in the water, especially when turning your paddle board.
4. Position your feet correctly.
Facing the front end of the board, place your feet in the centre of the board, about shoulder-width apart and parallel to each other. This position will evenly distribute your weight across the board and give you a solid foundation.
5. Look straight ahead.
Fixing your gaze on some distant point will improve your balance and help you maintain an upright posture. Looking down at your feet can cause you to lose balance.
6. Practise balance exercises when off the board.
When on land, practising exercises such as one-legged stands, yoga or tai-chi can significantly improve your balance on the board. They will strengthen your core and your ability to sense your body’s movements and position.
7. Wear appropriate footwear.
Wearing suitable footwear that provides good grip and support can help you stay balanced, especially when you’re practising on land or when you’re paddling in challenging water conditions. These paddleboarding shoes can be worn for a variety of activities, including watersports, walking and hiking.
8. Strengthen your core.
Your core muscles stabilise your body on the board. A strong core can help you maintain balance so you don’t wobble or fall off. It’s like having a steady foundation to support your movements.
Paddleboarding relies heavily on core stability. As you pull the paddle through the water, your core muscles resist twisting forces, keeping you upright and capable. A robust core will allow you to put more power into each stroke, propelling you forward more effectively.
A strong core will also minimize strain on your back and help maintain proper form during the repetitive movements required in paddleboarding. Having a strong core is the root of good balance.
9. Be aware of your posture.
Maintaining a good posture is essential for balance. Keep your back straight, shoulders back and head up. Such an alignment can ensure that your weight is centred over the board. It can also help you respond more effectively to the movements of the water.
6 Stretch Exercises for Stand-Up Paddleboarding
10. Practice makes perfect!
Begin your paddleboarding journey in calm water. As you gradually become more proficient, you can challenge yourself with different conditions. The more time you spend on your board, the more your balance will improve.
What to do when you fall off your paddleboard
Every paddleboarder has moments of instability; it’s an inevitable part of the learning process. Dedicate some time to improving your technique by following these tips for balancing on a paddleboard and you’ll soon gain in ability and confidence on the water.
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