Paddle boarding has a way of pulling you in fast—one moment you're admiring people gliding across the water, and the next you're buying your first board and learning (sometimes the hard way) how it all really works. Whether you're looking for fitness, fun, or a serene escape outdoors, SUP is one of the most rewarding water sports you can try.

But like most beginners, I made mistakes that could’ve been avoided with just a little guidance. Here are the biggest things I wish I knew before I started paddle boarding —and what will help you get started with confidence.

I learned quickly that not all boards are created equal. My first mistake? Trying to paddle on a regular surfboard. It was unstable, slow, and downright frustrating.

A real stand up paddle board—whether inflatable or hard—offers:

• Better stability

• More glide

• Proper volume for your weight

• A deck pad designed for traction

Inflatable paddle boards (especially Glide’s) are incredibly durable, rigid, and portable, making them perfect for beginners.

Your paddle is your engine. The wrong paddle turns SUP into unnecessary work.

Things I wish I knew:

• Your paddle should be 6–8 inches taller than you.

• The blade faces forward, not backward.

• Carbon fiber paddles beat aluminum every time—they're lighter, stiffer, and far more efficient.

Knowing the forward stroke, sweep stroke, and reverse stroke would have saved me hours of frustration. Once I learned to:

• Keep my arms straighter

• Engage my core

• Pull myself toward the paddle
  —everything clicked.

I started with a “surf stance” (one foot ahead of the other). Big mistake.

For stability:

• Feet parallel, hip-width apart

• Knees slightly bent

• Body facing forward

• Core lightly engaged

Yes, you will fall. It’s part of the sport.

Pro tip: Fall away from your board, not onto it.

And practice climbing back on ahead of time—don’t wait until you fall in deep water.

Wind can turn a pleasant paddle into a nightmare. Waves can overwhelm beginners. And tides? They matter—big time.

Here’s what I wish I’d done from day one:

• Start on calm, flat water

• Check wind speed (less than 7 mph is ideal)

• Avoid offshore winds

• Watch for storms or shifting weather

Your experience depends 100% on choosing the right water conditions.

SUP is sneaky. It looks easy but challenges your core, legs, back, and shoulders. A little pre-training goes a long way:

• Balance exercises

• Light strength training

• Core conditioning

Once I strengthened my core, everything—from paddling power to stability—became easier.

Boards look light… until the wind hits. Learning proper carry techniques matters, especially with hard boards.

Two easy methods:

• Use the center carry handle

• Lift the board onto your head for balanced weight distribution

Inflatables are easier, but still require smart handling when inflated.

Before I started, I didn’t realize SUP had an etiquette code.

Now? I wish I’d followed it from the start.

Essential rules:

• Keep distance from other paddlers

• Don’t block boat lanes

• Stay out of swim zones

• Yield waves to surfers in SUP-surf zones

• Offer help if someone needs it

Good etiquette keeps everyone safer and happier.

If you're new to paddle boarding, you’re in for an incredible adventure—but knowing these things ahead of time can help you avoid frustration, stay safer, and enjoy the sport so much more.

So grab your board, lather on some sunscreen, choose the right conditions, and get ready to fall in love with SUP. You’ll be gliding confidently in no time.