Learn to Stand Up Paddle Board on the Outer Banks

stand up paddle board on the obxRenting a stand up paddle board is a great way to explore the beauty of the Outer Banks. Whether you’re using your SUP on the sound or you decide to go out past the breakers and into the open ocean waters, there are a few things you need to remember when using your stand up paddle board from Ocean Atlantic Rentals.

Here’s how you can enjoy your stand-up paddle board rental and have a great time on your vacation:

1. Getting Started with SUPs

  • Once the board is out far enough into the water where the fin is free from hitting the bottom, start in the kneeling position.
  • Take a few strokes on each side and then step up with one foot at a time, keeping yourself centered over the boards, legs parallel with shoulders.
  • Once up, continue to keep your core centered over the board and slightly bend your knees.
  • If you fall off, don’t get discouraged! Keep trying.
  • Success of balance depends on the right size SUP, so make sure the person using the rental board comes into the store so our staff can recommend the right size.
  • If you are unsure, wider boards provide better balance.

2. Paddle Boarding Best Practices

  • rent water sports equipment, ocean atlantic rentals obxWhen holding the paddle, one hand goes on top of the handle and the other is on the shaft. When paddling, don’t put both hands on the shaft of the paddle like a broomstick.
  • For a powerful stroke, your grip on the paddle should be shoulder width apart. If your hands are too close together, you’ll have a powerless stroke.
  • To paddle efficiently, let your large back muscles (and really your whole body) help with each stroke, not just your arms. Remember to keep your knees slightly bent. Just using your arm muscles when stroking will cause you to not go as far and you will get tired faster.
  • For a proper paddle, dip the blade fully into the water and take a long sweeping motion for your stroke letting your back muscles do the work (not your arms).
  • Remember to keep your toes pointed forward and your feet shoulder width apart. Don’t get into a surf stance with one foot in front of the other because it could affect the balance of the board and you could fall.
  • Stay calm. This is supposed to be FUN!

rent SUP obx, ocean atlantic rentalsCheck out the options of standup paddle boards we carry including our 9’ soft top which is great for kids and adults up to 120 pounds. We also have 10.5’ standard size for adults and 11.5’ hard top stand up paddle board for adults over 250 pounds).

If you have more questions, come into the store and ask our staff for some tips and tricks-they’ll have plenty of suggestions!

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