When they want to try a new sport on vacation, many typically search for Maui surf lessons, but another watersport is gaining considerable popularity these days and that’s stand up paddle boarding (or SUP). Actually, stand up paddle is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. This growing trend in Maui stand up paddle board has exploded in popularity because it’s simple to learn, provides a great full body workout, and can be done by people of all ages and skill levels. Many athletes use stand up paddleboard as a cross training exercise, and it really strengthens your core muscles. Maui SUP also offers paddlers awesome views into the clear ocean waters as well as majestic views of the surrounding islands. On a calm day and with the right paddleboard, stand up paddling isn’t too hard, but here are some tips as you embark on your preliminary Maui SUP lesson.The right paddleboard and gear. Especially for a beginner, a thicker, longer, and wider paddleboard will be better. These will be more stable than smaller boards, allowing you to learn to SUP much easier. Starting out on too small of a paddleboard is a common SUP mistake and makes it difficult to gain your balance.
When picking your paddle as a beginner, you’ll want to get one that is longer (for flat water use). Generally, paddles should be around 8-10 inches taller than you for flat water touring. Adjustable paddles can be perfect, especially when you’re just starting out, to get a better indication of which length is best for you. These paddleboard and paddle lengths will differ depending on your height and weight as well as experience. Different boards are used for different types of paddling including those for surfing and racing, so you may want a different size and type of board as you learn what kind of paddling you like most. You will also need a personal flotation device, a leash to fasten from your board to your ankle, and perhaps a rash guard for sun protection or a wet suit for colder weather.
Standing on your Maui paddleboard. Find a protected area where the water is calm and take the board out to where the fin isn’t striking anything, about knee high water. Just behind the center of the board, get into a kneeling position on the board. Have the paddle laying across the width of your paddleboard in front of you. While gripping the rails or sides of the board, slowly stand up one foot at a time, staying in the center of the board, with your feet parallel about shoulder width apart. You’ll want to keep your knees slight bent and your core centered on the board to help keep you balanced. Your eyes should look forward and your head and shoulders should stay upright. As soon as you stand up, put your paddle in the water and begin paddling to make the board more stable. The basic strokes of Maui SUP. When you’re paddling, you’ll have one hand on the top of the paddle as a guide, and the other hand gripping the middle of the paddle shaft or about a shoulder width apart from your other hand. Extend the blade of the paddle beside your board as far forward as you can comfortably, typically about 4 feet in front of your feet. Immerse the blade fully in the water and move the blade straight back to the area of your feet through the water. Do 3 or 4 strokes on one side and then change your paddle to the opposite side, reversing your hand positions. Start out with shorter strokes as a beginner. Keep your back and arms straight, shoulders level, while somewhat bending at the knees and elbow.
Falling off your paddleboard. If you feel like you’re going to fall, aim to the side and shove away from the board as your fall to avoid falling on the board. If you lose your board and paddle, try to get to your board first and then your paddle. But always be careful and on the lookout for anything around you as you’re paddling whether other paddlers, watercraft, or objects in the water.
These are just a few tips to get you on your way to Maui stand up paddling. SUP or as we say, “hoe he’e nalu” is a relaxing and fun way to enjoy the ocean or really any body of water from oceans to lakes to rivers. Hawaiian Style Surf offers regular Maui SUP lessons to all who want to experience this remarkable and ever-popular watersport.
