So, you’ve just gotten your hands on a brand new standup paddleboard and now you’re itching to take it out on the water. But as you stand there, staring at the seemingly endless expanse of calm, turquoise waves, a question pops into your mind: how do I turn this thing? Don’t worry, my friend, I’ve got your back. In this article, we’ll explore some tried-and-true techniques to help you effortlessly maneuver your standup paddleboard and take on those majestic waters with confidence. Get ready to master the art of turning and embrace the adventure that awaits you!
Basic Techniques
Back Paddle
Overview
The back paddle technique is an essential skill for effectively maneuvering a standup paddleboard (SUP). It involves paddling backward to change the direction of the board or slow down your momentum. Mastering this technique will give you better control and stability on the water.
Execution
To execute the back paddle, simply reverse the motion of your forward paddle stroke. Instead of pulling the paddle towards the rear of the board, push it forward, away from you. Maintain a comfortable grip on the paddle shaft, keeping your hands shoulder-width apart, and engage your core muscles for stability. Alternate the strokes on each side of the board to maintain balance.
Tips
- Focus on keeping your movements smooth and steady.
- Keep your eyes forward to maintain balance and avoid veering off course.
- Practice the technique in calm and shallow waters before tackling more challenging conditions.
Sweep Stroke
Overview
The sweep stroke is another fundamental technique that allows you to turn and change the direction of your SUP in a wider arc. It is particularly useful for making sweeping turns or navigating around obstacles.
Execution
To perform the sweep stroke, start with your paddle blade pointing away from the board’s nose. Plant the paddle blade near the tail of the board and extend your arms forward. Begin a sweeping motion, using your upper body to rotate and pull the paddle towards the front of the board in a wide arc. Position the paddle perpendicular to the board’s centerline by the time it reaches the nose, and then lift it out of the water and transition into the next stroke.
Tips
- Keep your strokes consistent on both sides of the board for balanced turning.
- Use your core muscles and twist your torso to generate power for efficient strokes.
- Practice different sweep stroke angles to achieve varying turns.
Pivot Turn
Overview
The pivot turn is an advanced technique that allows you to make sharp and quick turns. It is especially useful in tight spaces or when dealing with strong currents.
Execution
To execute a pivot turn, begin by shifting your weight towards the tail of the board. Place the paddle into the water near the nose and use it as a pivot point. Push down with your hands while placing your foot or knee on the board near the tail for additional stability. As you pivot, sweep the paddle in a wide arc, similar to the sweep stroke, to help initiate the turn. Once the turn is initiated, shift your weight forward to maintain stability.
Tips
- Practice the pivot turn in calm conditions before attempting it in more challenging situations.
- To execute a sharper turn, increase the angle of your sweep stroke.
- Keep your eyes focused on the direction you want to turn to maintain balance and control.
Step Back Turn
Overview
The step back turn is a technique that allows you to quickly turn your board by stepping back, hence its name. This maneuver is particularly effective for making tight or quick turns.
Execution
To perform a step back turn, start by placing your feet in a parallel stance near the center of the board. Keep your knees slightly bent and your core engaged for stability. When you’re ready to turn, take a small step back with your rear foot, shifting more weight onto your front foot. Simultaneously, use your paddle for balance and leverage by planting it in the water and pushing it away from the board in the direction of your turn. Maintain a balanced and controlled motion throughout the turn.
Tips
- Practice the step back turn gradually, starting with smaller turns before attempting sharper turns.
- Keep your upper body relaxed and focused on the direction of your turn.
- Avoid leaning too far back, as it might cause instability on the board.
Kick Turn
Overview
The kick turn, also known as the step turn, involves quickly turning your board by stepping back and pivoting on the tail. This technique allows for sharp and agile turns, making it ideal for navigating narrow waterways or tight corners.
Execution
To perform a kick turn, start by placing your feet in a parallel stance near the center of the board. Bend your knees slightly and keep your core engaged for stability. When you’re ready to turn, take a quick step back with your rear foot, placing it near or on the tail of the board. Pivot on your rear foot while keeping your front foot planted on the board. Simultaneously, use your paddle for balance and leverage by planting it in the water and pushing it away from the board in the direction of your turn. Maintain control throughout the turn and ensure your weight is evenly distributed.
Tips
- Practice the kick turn in calm water before attempting it in more challenging conditions.
- Keep your upper body relaxed and focused on the direction of your turn.
- Maintain an active and balanced stance throughout the maneuver.
Advanced Techniques
Cross Bow
Overview
The cross bow technique is an advanced maneuver that involves turning your board by shifting your weight and drawing the paddle in an arcing motion, similar to shooting an imaginary bow and arrow. This technique allows for precise turns and is commonly used in competitive SUP events.
Execution
To execute the cross bow, start by positioning yourself in an active and balanced stance on the board, with your feet shoulder-width apart. With the paddle in the water on your dominant side, twist your torso and draw the paddle towards the nose of the board in an arching motion, similar to pulling back an arrow on a bow. Use your core muscles to generate power and maintain balance. As the board starts to turn, shift your weight and maintain control throughout the maneuver.
Tips
- Practice the cross bow technique in calm and controlled conditions before attempting it in more challenging environments.
- Keep your eyes focused on the point you want to turn towards for better accuracy.
- Experiment with different paddle angles and positions to refine your technique.
Stern Rudder
Overview
The stern rudder technique involves using the back of your SUP as a pivot point to execute precise and controlled turns. This method is particularly helpful when dealing with strong wind or currents.
Execution
To perform the stern rudder, stand near the rear of the board with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent for stability. Hold the paddle with both hands near the top of the shaft, keeping your arms slightly extended. Plant the paddle blade vertically into the water near the rear of the board, angling it slightly away from the tail. Push the paddle blade away from the board, applying pressure and using it as a rudder to turn the board. Adjust the angle and pressure on the paddle blade to control the speed and direction of the turn.
Tips
- Experiment with different paddle angles and pressures to find the most effective rudder position for your board and conditions.
- Keep your upper body relaxed and your eyes focused on the direction of the turn for better control.
- Practice the stern rudder technique in varying wind and current conditions to become proficient in different scenarios.
Frontside Turn
Overview
The frontside turn is a technique that involves turning towards the front of your board by using the paddle and body movements. This maneuver is commonly used to change direction quickly or execute tight turns.
Execution
To perform a frontside turn, start by shifting your weight slightly towards the tail of the board. With the paddle in the water on your non-dominant side, plant the paddle blade near the nose of the board and lean forward slightly. Push the paddle blade away from the board, using it as a lever to initiate the turn. Simultaneously, shift your weight towards the front of the board and use your body movements to guide the turn. Maintain an active and balanced stance throughout the maneuver for better control.
Tips
- Practice the frontside turn in different conditions to develop your coordination and technique.
- Experiment with different angles and pressures on the paddle blade to achieve varying turn radii.
- Keep your eyes focused on the direction of the turn and stay engaged with your core muscles for stability.
By mastering these basic and advanced techniques, you’ll be well-equipped to turn your standup paddleboard with confidence and precision. Remember to practice regularly in varying conditions to improve your skills and enhance your overall paddling experience. Happy paddling!