Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is an exciting water sport that offers a great way to explore the water and stay active. However, falling off your paddle board is an inevitable part of the experience, especially for beginners. The good news is that getting back on your board after a fall is not as difficult as it may seem. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various techniques and tips to help you safely and efficiently get back on your paddle board after taking a spill.
Falling Off Your Paddle Board: Normal and Inevitable
Falling off a paddle board is completely normal, even for experienced paddlers. It can happen due to various factors, such as rough waters, strong winds, or simply losing your balance. Understanding that falling off is a natural part of the SUP experience will help alleviate any fear or embarrassment associated with it.
When you fall off your paddle board, it’s important to remember a few key points:
- Fall away from your board: To minimize the risk of injury, always fall away from your board and avoid landing on it or your paddle. This will prevent any potential collisions and keep you safe.
- Land flat on the water: When you fall, try to land flat on the water’s surface. This will help absorb the impact and reduce the risk of injury. Be mindful of any potential hazards below the water’s surface, such as rocks or reefs.
- Stay with your board: If you have to choose between your paddle and your board, prioritize staying with your board. Your paddle can be retrieved later, but losing your board can leave you stranded in the water. Wearing a leash is highly recommended to prevent your board from drifting away.
Techniques to Get Back on Your Paddle Board
The Side Entry Method
The most common and effective method to get back on your paddle board is the side entry method. Follow these steps:
- Swim to your paddle board: After falling off, swim towards your paddle board, making sure to keep it within reach.
- Position yourself on the side: Once you’re close to your board, position yourself on the side, parallel to the board.
- Grab the carry handle: Reach out and grab the center carry handle of your paddle board with one hand.
- Pull yourself onto the board: Use the carry handle to pull yourself onto the board. Simultaneously, kick your legs against the water’s surface to help lift your body onto the board.
- Get fully on the board: Once your upper body is on the paddle board, grab the opposite rail with your other hand and kick your legs to float behind you. This will help you bring the rest of your body onto the board.
Starting from the Tail
If you’re a beginner or find it easier to get back on from the tail of the board, you can modify the side entry method slightly:
- Swim to the tail of your board: Instead of positioning yourself on the side, swim towards the tail of your paddle board.
- Grab the tail handle or rail: Reach out and grab either the tail handle or the rail of your board, depending on what feels more comfortable and accessible to you.
- Pull yourself onto the board: Use the handle or rail to pull yourself onto the board. Kick your legs against the water’s surface to assist in lifting your body onto the board.
- Adjust your position: Once you’re on the board, adjust your position to a kneeling or sitting position before standing up again.
The Stirrup Technique
The stirrup technique is an alternative method that can be useful if you struggle with upper body strength:
- Attach a strap or rope: Before heading out on your paddle board, attach a strap or rope to the D-ring, handle, or leash string at the tail end of your board.
- Dangle the strap in the water: When you fall off your board and can’t get back on, dangle the strap in the water over the tail end of the board.
- Create a loop with the strap: Adjust the strap to create a loop that you can place your foot through. This will act as a stirrup.
- Step onto the loop: Place your foot through the loop and use it as a step to climb back onto the board. Kick with your other leg to help propel yourself onto the board.
The stirrup technique can provide extra support and leverage, making it easier to get back on your paddle board, especially if you have limited upper body strength.
Using a Rope or Strap for Assistance
Another way to utilize a rope or strap to help you get back on your paddle board is as follows:
- Attach the rope to the handle: Attach the rope to the handle at the front end of your paddle board.
- Pull the rope to the tail end: Pull the rope towards the tail end of the board, where you’ll be attempting to mount.
- Grab the rope and pull yourself: Grab the rope and use it to pull yourself towards the board. Kick your legs to assist in lifting your body onto the board.
Using a rope or strap can provide additional support and stability during the process of getting back on your paddle board.
Combining Methods for Added Assistance
If you find it challenging to get back on your board using a single method, you can combine techniques for added assistance:
- Use a rope at both ends of the board: Attach a rope or strap to both the front and tail ends of your paddle board.
- Step onto the loop at the tail end: Attach a loop to the tail end of the board using the rope. Step onto the loop with your foot.
- Pull on the rope at the front end: Grab the rope at the front end of the board and pull yourself towards it. Kick your legs to help propel yourself onto the board.
Combining methods can provide a customized approach based on your individual needs and preferences, allowing for a smoother and more efficient reentry onto your paddle board.
Flip Rescue Technique with Assistance
If you’re paddleboarding with others or have someone nearby to assist you, the flip rescue technique can be a valuable method:
- Flip the board upside down: Turn your paddle board upside down while you’re in the water.
- Grab the side nearest to you: Grab onto the side of the board that is now closest to you, ensuring a firm grip.
- Assist from the other paddler: Have the other paddler approach the board from the opposite side. They can use their body weight to flip the board back upright, leveraging you onto the board.
The flip rescue technique can be used not only to assist yourself but also to help others who may be struggling in the water. It’s an important skill to learn and practice for the safety of everyone involved.
Additional Tips for Getting Back on Your Paddle Board
In addition to the techniques mentioned above, here are some additional tips to keep in mind when getting back on your paddle board:
- Practice in shallow water: Before venturing out into deeper waters, practice getting back on your paddle board in shallow water. This will help you familiarize yourself with the techniques and build confidence.
- Dress appropriately: Dress according to the weather conditions and water temperature. Consider wearing water-resistant materials and, if needed, a wet or dry suit to stay comfortable and safe.
- Use a leash: Always wear a leash when paddleboarding. It keeps your board close to you and prevents it from drifting away, making it easier to retrieve after a fall.
- Engage your paddle quickly: Once you’re back on your board, engage your paddle quickly. An active paddle will help you maintain balance and stability on the water.
- Stay calm and focused: Falling off your paddle board can be disorienting and may cause panic. Stay calm, take deep breaths, and focus on the techniques you’ve practiced to safely get back on your board.
Remember, falling off your paddle board is a normal part of the SUP experience. By familiarizing yourself with the techniques and practicing them in a controlled environment, you’ll be prepared to confidently and efficiently get back on your board after a fall.
Conclusion
Falling off your paddle board is inevitable, but it shouldn’t deter you from enjoying this thrilling water sport. With the right techniques and a calm approach, you can quickly and safely get back on your board after taking a spill. Whether you opt for the side entry method, the stirrup technique, or a combination of methods, practice in shallow water and dress appropriately for the conditions. Always prioritize safety and remember to wear a leash to keep your board within reach. Embrace the occasional falls as learning experiences and continue to explore the water on your paddle board with confidence.
