Embarking on a paddleboarding journey is thrilling, but it’s not uncommon for beginners to grapple with fears and anxieties. Most of them swirl around the idea of standing up on the paddle board. While other people make it look easy, you can be anxious about falling in and losing your balance. Plus, you’ve got to be able to stand up in the first place on moving water.
You must remember that confidence takes time. The first few times you’re on a paddle board, it can be scary. But, every time after this, it gets easier. You understand the best techniques and get familiar with how it feels to be out on the water. Here are some tips on how you can overcome your fear and enjoy this amazing activity.
Facing Common Fears
Fear of Falling
Picture this: you’re out on the water, and the thought of taking a plunge is nerve-wracking. The truth is that falling is part of the learning process. To conquer this fear, start with shallow waters, practicing falling intentionally. Gradually, as you realise it’s not as daunting as it seems, the fear will dissipate. It also helps when you have the right board. Tidal Rave Sports have cool SUPs for beginners, made from quality materials that can help with stability.
Anxiety about Open Water
The vastness of open water can trigger anxiety for many beginners. Combat this by gradually expanding your comfort zone. Begin in calm, enclosed waters and progressively venture into more open areas. Familiarity breeds confidence, and before you know it, that open-water anxiety will be a thing of the past.
Confidence-Building Exercises
Progressive Balance Drills
Building a strong foundation in balance is key to confidence. Start with on-land drills – practice balancing on one leg, then both, gradually incorporating small movements. As you gain stability, transition to in-water exercises. Floating yoga poses on your paddleboard are excellent for refining balance and boosting confidence.
Gradual Exposure to Different Water Conditions
Variety is the spice of life, and the same goes for paddleboarding. Instead of sticking to one type of water, expose yourself gradually to different conditions. Start with calm lakes, progress to rivers with gentle currents, and, when you’re ready, take on the challenge of small waves. Each step forward builds resilience and bolsters your confidence.
Tips for Successfully Inflating a Paddle Board
Is it time to inflate your new paddle board? While this might seem like an easy task, you need to get it right to ensure your board is sturdy and safe on the water. This includes paying attention to the PSI, checking the valve and watching out for air leaks. Here’s some useful advice for first-time paddleboarders.
Never Guess the PSI
Some people think they can look at a paddle board and simply know when it’s inflated correctly. However, you risk going out on the water with an underinflated board. Plus, if you overinflate it, you can cause damage. Instead of guesswork, always check the recommended PSI. This will be given to you in the instructions or user manual. Then, you can inflate to this pounds per square inch measurement with peace of mind.
Invest in an Electric Pump
Most paddle boards will come with a hand pump. While this is going to get the job done, it will involve some exertion. Instead, it’s best to purchase an electric pump. This will be an efficient way to inflate your board at your destination. Just keep an eye on the pressure gauge when it’s operating.
Always Check the Valve
After the inflating is done, it’ll be time to seal the valve. If this is the first time using this board, make sure you read the instructions on securing the valve. Boards can be different, with some having a locking mechanism. You want to ensure this is secured properly, or you’ll lose inflation on the water.
Examine Before Enjoying
Once your paddle board is inflated, you’ll be eager to get out onto the water. But, before you head for the shore, make sure you inspect your board. This is the perfect time to ensure it’s in good health. You can easily check if there are any air leaks by listening for sound and running your hand along the board. Some small holes can be patched up with a repair kit. But, if the damage is significant, it’s best to take it to a professional for repair and not go on the water.
Conclusion
Remember, building confidence on a paddleboard is a journey, not a race. Embrace the process, celebrate small victories, and, most importantly, enjoy the beauty of the water beneath you. You’re not just overcoming fears; you’re unlocking a world of thrilling adventures on your paddleboard.
