10 paddle boarding mistakes to avoid.

Paddle boarding is an incredibly popular activity for people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddle boarder, it's important to recognize and avoid common mistakes that could lead to dangerous situations. To help you stay safe when you hit the open waters, here is a list of the 10 most common paddle boarding mistakes to avoid.

1. Not Wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD).

Wearing a PFD is one of the most important safety precautions you can take when paddle boarding. PFDs provide an extra layer of protection in the event that you fall off your board or the board capsizes. Make sure to check your local laws to determine the correct size and type of PFD for your activity. For more on life jackets check out this article!

2. Not Having a Leash.

A leash is essential for paddle boarders, especially those who are just starting out. A leash will keep your board from drifting away if you fall off and it will also help you to stay close to the shoreline if you get tired or the wind picks up. This does not apply if you are going to be doing whitewater paddle boarding, DO NOT wear a leash while whitewater paddle boarding! If you do wear a leash when whitewater paddle boarding it must be with a quick release.

3. Not Checking the Weather.

Before you go out on the water, it's important to check the weather forecasts to make sure the conditions are safe for paddle boarding. Strong winds continue to pose a major threat to paddle boarders, especially if you're in an open body of water.

4. Not Knowing the Local Regulations.

Different areas may have different rules and regulations regarding paddle boarding. Before you launch, make sure to check with the local authorities to ensure that you’re following the rules.

5. Not Checking the Tide and Currents.

Tides and currents can be tricky to navigate, so it's important to check the local forecasts before you head out. Knowing the tide and current patterns can help you plan your route, and can also help you stay safe while you're out on the water.

6. Not Knowing Your Limits.

keep paddle vertical, stand near the carry handle or center carry handle on the deck pad,arms straight hand gripping the shaft holding top of your paddle and holding the paddle shaft reach forward for the sup stroke facing forward maintain stability and you are stand up paddle boarding, a wide board is more stable in this very unique sport, a poor stroke can have you literally sail to failure and leave you holding paddle in a sad packed lineup

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of paddle boarding and push yourself too far, but it's important to know your limits and stay within them. If you're feeling tired or overwhelmed, it's okay to take a break or head back to shore.

7. Not Stretching.

even a breeze is a beginner mistake that will cause a deceptive full body workout,check weather forecast before you stand up paddle board,practice fall safely the correct way on a hard board, sup mistakes and most common sup mistakes include not wearing a life jacket

Stretching is an important part of any physical activity, and paddle boarding is no exception. Make sure to take the time to stretch before and after your paddle boarding sessions, to help prevent injury and to keep you feeling strong and flexible.

8. Not Knowing The Right of Way.

paddle efficiently for a full body workout, not only the left side be carefull of heat stroke and wearing the wrong gear or wrong equipment,launch in knee deep water access point to launch board correctly place board backwards using the cary handle and paddling at an angle from shore will help beginner paddlers

When you're out on the open water, it's important to follow the rules of the road. In most cases, paddle boarders have the right of way over power craft, although you should also be aware of their surroundings to avoid collisions.

9. Not Being Aware of Your Surroundings.

paddle whichever board you like most paddle boards  can be fun, a solid tip is to learn an efficient paddle stroke technique, keep paddle verticle and go in a straight line, paddle length should be adjustable as inflatable board might be taller and then only the tip might work.

Paddle boarding can be a peaceful activity, but it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Be sure to keep an eye out for other boats, swimmers, and obstacles, and take extra precautions when paddling in unfamiliar areas.

10. Not Having Fun.

paddle board, paddle blade and bring snacks paddle boarding,inflatable paddle board or a hard paddle board can damage a paddle's blade or paddle shaft

Last but certainly not least, it's important to remember to have fun and enjoy your paddle boarding experience. Don't forget to take in the beauty of your surroundings and appreciate the feeling of being on the water.

efficient paddle technique for left hand or right hand,surfers hate all the waves,start paddling no wrong way for a good paddle stroke,common mistake paddle boarder hoarding popular surf breaks or other paddle destination and standing too far forward

Paddle boarding can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it's important to stay safe and aware at all times. By avoiding these 10 common mistakes, you can ensure a fun and safe paddle boarding experience for yourself and those around you. Let us know about how you learned to paddle board and the funny mistakes that were made at #glidesup on Instagram.