Paddleboarding is a fun and relaxing water sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages. If you live in the UK and are interested in trying paddleboarding, here are some tips on how to get started.
Choose the Right Equipment
Before you hit the water, you will need to make sure you have the right equipment. There are several different types of paddleboards to choose from, including inflatable boards, hard boards, and touring boards. It is important to choose a board that is suitable for the type of paddling you plan to do.
Here are the main types of paddleboards to choose from.
Inflatable Paddleboards
Inflatable paddleboards are made of durable, lightweight materials and can be easily inflated and deflated for storage and transport. They are a popular choice for recreational paddling and are ideal for beginners, as they are more stable and easier to handle than hard boards. Inflatable boards are also more portable and convenient to store.
Hard Paddleboards
Hard paddleboards, also known as solid boards, are made of a solid material, such as epoxy or foam, and are covered with a layer of fiberglass. They are more maneuverable and offer a better workout than inflatable boards, making them a popular choice for experienced paddlers. However, hard boards can be more challenging to transport and store.
Touring Paddleboards
Touring paddleboards are designed for long-distance paddling and are more efficient in the water than other types of boards. They are typically longer and wider than other boards, and they have a more pointed nose, which makes them faster and more stable in choppy waters. Touring boards are a popular choice for paddlers who want to explore the water and cover long distances.
Surf Paddleboards
Surf paddleboards are designed for riding the waves and are shorter, wider, and more maneuverable than other types of boards. They are typically made of a foam core, which provides the necessary buoyancy and stability in the water, and they have a pointed nose, which makes them faster and more responsive in the surf. Surf paddleboards are a popular choice for paddlers who want to catch some waves and experience the thrill of surfing on a paddleboard.
Yoga Paddleboards
Yoga paddleboards are designed for practicing yoga on the water and are wider and more stable than other types of boards. They often come with non-slip surfaces and bungee cords for storing gear, making them ideal for yoga sessions on the water. Yoga paddleboards are a popular choice for paddlers who want to combine exercise and relaxation in a unique and scenic setting.
If you are planning to use your paddleboard for recreational purposes, an inflatable board may be the best choice. If you are planning to go on longer paddling trips, a touring board may be a better option, as they are designed for long-distance paddling and are more efficient in the water.
Find a Safe Location
The next step is to find a safe location to paddleboard. Look for a calm and sheltered body of water, such as a lake or a canal. Avoid open water, especially if the weather is windy or there are waves.
The UK has a diverse range of landscapes, from rolling hills to rugged coastlines, and this makes it a great destination for paddleboarding. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler, there are plenty of beautiful places to explore. Here are some of the best places to paddleboard in the UK.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales
This stunning national park is home to over 186 miles of coastline and offers plenty of opportunities for paddleboarding. The clear waters and protected coves make it a great place for beginners, while the more challenging open waters are perfect for experienced paddler
The Lake District, England
The Lake District is one of the UK’s most popular tourist destinations and offers plenty of opportunities for paddleboarding. The many lakes and reservoirs are surrounded by stunning scenery, and there are plenty of places to launch your board and explore.
The River Thames, England
The River Thames runs through the heart of London and offers a unique paddleboarding experience. You can explore the city’s famous landmarks and attractions from a different perspective, and there are plenty of places to launch your board along the river.
The Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most stunning scenery in the UK, and they are also a great place to paddleboard. The many lochs and inlets provide plenty of opportunities to explore, and the rugged landscapes make for a truly unforgettable experience.
The Norfolk Broads, England
The Norfolk Broads are a network of rivers, lakes, and marshes that are located in East Anglia. This area is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a great place to paddleboard. The flat, sheltered waters make it an ideal place for beginners, and there are plenty of places to launch your board and explore.
Learn the Basics
Before you get on the board, make sure you understand the basics of paddleboarding. Start by learning how to balance on the board and how to hold the paddle correctly.
Next, practice paddling on your knees until you feel comfortable standing up. Once you feel confident, start paddling while standing on the board. Remember to keep your knees bent and your core engaged.
Improve Your Skills
As you become more comfortable with paddleboarding, you can start to improve your skills. Try to paddle in different directions and experiment with different speeds.
You can also try to do some basic tricks, such as turning in a circle or doing a 180-degree spin. Remember to always be aware of your surroundings and to stay safe while you are on the water.
Join a Paddleboarding Group
Finally, consider joining a local paddleboarding group. This is a great way to meet other paddleboarders and to get tips and advice from more experienced paddlers.
In conclusion, paddleboarding is a fun and rewarding water sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. By following these tips, you can start paddleboarding with confidence and enjoy the many benefits that this sport has to offer.