SUP, which is Stand up paddle boarding, is an excellent way to have fun on the water, and as a bonus, get a workout-a full-body one! An advantage of standing up on your board offers the opportunity to see what’s swimming around under you. Plus, a fantastic view of the horizon!
If you have never conquered SUP, it is good to know something about the gear you will use, and basic techniques. To have an excellent adventure and want to return, you will need to know a few things.
How do you get suited and geared up to SUP? Well, of course, you will need a paddleboard.
A couple of first time SUP tips. Also great for those who have not been out in a while.
GEARING UP TO SUP
1. STAND UP PADDLE BOARD: Should this be your first time out, consider borrowing a board from a close friend or renting one from a reputable company. Renting or borrowing will help you determine what kind of board is your style and fit. Also, to help determine which cool board to get, consider where you will be using and the local conditions.
Not all boards are created equal! Some are specific to a discipline, like surfing, racing, SUP yoga, and recreational paddling in areas like a lake. Renting a SUP will give you staff that will guide you in the right direction.
2. PADDLE: Having a properly sized paddle is also essential. The paddle looks almost like a canoe paddle that has meet stretch Armstrong, with a blade that comes forward to help you achieve your maximum paddling efficiency. Keep in mind that a proper paddle will reach your wrist when standing in front of you and raise your arm.
3. PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE: You will need a personal flotation device or PFD on board. Your stand up paddle board is a vessel according to the U. S. Coast Guard if you travel outside of designated surfing or swimming locations. While an adult does not have to have the PFD on, a child must. Check out the age regulations for Virginia before heading out to save you potential trouble.
4. LIGHT AND SAFETY WHISTLE: Another requirement from the U. S. Coast Guard is a safety whistle. This whistle allows you to warn other boaters that you are near. Should you be out after dark, some type of light should also be on board. You would not want to end up stranded in the water because you did not see that large rock in the water.
5. CORRECT CLOTHING: While you may be able to wear a swimsuit or shorts during the summertime months if, on warm water, there is always the possibility of those sunny conditions turning cooler. So, plan accordingly. Should you decide to SUP in an area where temperatures are much cooler, such as the mountains, where you could experience hypothermia, consider wearing a wet or dry suit.
FIRST TIME ON THE SUP BOARD OR BEEN A WHILE
Whether you are a beginner, first time SUP user, or have not been out on a board in a while, consider these helpful techniques to ensure that your time on the board is enjoyable.
1. Pick a lake, pond, or stream that is small and calm. Ensure that the body of water is free of obstacles such as large visible rocks, larger boats, or buoys.
2. Go out on a sunny day that is not windy.
3. Head out on your SUP with a buddy so that each of you can help the other if needed.
4. Paddle for about 60 minutes. The short time will help you ease your way into SUP and not get overly tired.
5. Check out a sandy beach so that you can wade in and not struggle when launching your SUP.
CONCLUSION
Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) in Charlottesville can be an exciting outdoor adventure. Consider hitting up the Rivanna River or Beaver Creek Lake. For those looking to travel a lit bit, head up to the gorgeous James River.