3 Things You Need to Know before your first Stand Up Paddle session
PHOTO: ATIF SAZALI, SPORTPLUS.SG
Looking to hit the beach and try out stand up paddling? Here are seven places in Singapore you can try out this fast growing sport!
Stand up paddling is known to provide a huge number of benefits, particularly for those who are recovering from injuries or have joint aches and are unable to participate in sports that have a higher impact on the knees.
It is also a full body workout, helps one to improve overall balance and lose weight and provides an optimal environment to destress and meditate.
Now that we know of some of the benefits that Stand Up Paddle brings, here are three things you need to know as a beginner before you start your first Stand Up Paddle session:
PHOTO: ATIF SAZALI, SPORTPLUS.SG
1. Paddle Boards
There are different types of Stand Up Paddle boards, and for the sake of this article we will focus on two types of boards - racing boards and touring paddle boards.
Racing Paddle Boards are generally more streamlined and lighter, usually designed with a more aerodynamic fit for it to cut through the water faster.
Touring boards on the other hand are generally bigger and more stable, and is easier to be adopted by beginners for their first stand up paddle sessions.
Pro Tip: Try to match the width of the board to your body type for greater stability.
PHOTO: ATIF SAZALI, SPORTPLUS.SG
2. Paddles
There are different types of paddles as well - adjustable paddles that are generally used for beginners. The wider blade shape of these paddles means there is more surface area thus allowing for more powerful strokes.
Advanced paddles on the other hand are usually made out of carbon fibre and very light - usually less than 1kg. The stiffness of the carbon fibre allows excellent power transfer from your muscles to the blade.
PHOTO: JOHN YEONG, SPORTPLUS.SG
3. Leash
Last but not least, in order to do stand up paddling, you would need to have a leash. The leash is usually attached to the end of the paddle board with the other end tied to your ankle. This is a very important piece of equipment even if you are a proficient paddler, as one can never know what the waves and wind conditions might bring.
Apart from ankle attachments, there are also other types of leash attachments such as waist attachments and calf attachments.
PHOTO: HANA BASIR, SPORTPLUS.SG
Read Up About the rest of our Learn To Stand Up Paddle series here
About this Project
This learn to stand up paddle series is done in collaboration with Project Ocean Therapy.
Project Ocean Therapy aspires to help individuals with autism hone water sports skills, build self-confidence, develop mindfulness, as well as raise physical, emotional, social and mental wellness.
Officially launched in April 2018 in conjunction with World Autism Month, the programme has since witnessed numerous milestones in the progress of its participants’ abilities.
In partnership with the Sentosa-based SUP club, SUPVentures, the programme is developed in a structured manner that allows participants to gradually advance in their paddling skills and water confidence, which could eventually lead to their involvement in competitive events.
Beyond SUP abilities, the programme also intends to train its participants for employment opportunities.
To learn more, visit www.instagram.com/projectoceantherapy
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