1 - Having the wrong equipment
This will seem obvious : all the SUP boards are not the same. Some are more stable, some have more buoyancy, some are made to go faster etc.
We recommend bigger boards such as inflatable SUP board to begin with. Their stability will make it easier to focus on your technique instead of focusing on staying up on your board. They're also great as they don't take much space when you travel.
The paddle is another important thing to consider ! Please don't hold it backwards. It's the best way to use a lot of energy and get weak paddle strokes.
The paddle should also fit your size. Quick tip when you're setting it up : lift your arm on top of your head and set the handle height at your wrist level. Same thing here, if the setup isn't well done, you will lose a lot of efficiency.
2- Having a wrong posture and looking down at your board
A lot of you probably already know : your position on a stand up paddle board is crucial ! This is the key to balance, and having a great balance is a key to become a good stand up paddler. If you're a beginner start in a symmetrical position in the middle of the board (around the handle). You will have time later to try the surf position to do more advanced techniques such as the pivot turn.
Your posture is also important, your back should be straight at all times ! Remember to bend your legs and not your back. This will first improve your paddle strokes and you will be able to paddle longer without getting tired but most importantly, you will avoid injuries.
The way you look is also a big game changer. Don't stare down at your board. We know this is hard for beginners to do but you will be much more stable looking up where you want to go. Chances are that your board will also go straighter (if your paddling technique is correct - read below).
3- Having a bad paddling technique
A lot of videos will explain you the right way to paddle with a good efficiency. Keep these few points in mind :
- The blade has to enter straight into the water. If you paddle at an angle, you lose a lot of your strokes' power.
- Don't paddle too far past feet. This will cause too much drag and it will slow you down.
- Keep the paddle close to the board. Indeed you wanna go as straight as possible to get a good speed. If you start putting your blade far from the board you will go from side to side and again, you lose efficiency.
- Use your core muscles as the top arm goes across and drop down. This power will be added to your strokes.
4- Trying to learn by yourself
Unless you've been looking at instructional videos for hours, going straight away in the water with your gear without knowing the techniques isn't a good idea.
First, it is dangerous because if you catch some wind or currents on your way back, you will probably spend a not-really-funny moment : injuries, get lost
Secondly, there's a big chance that you learn faster with SUP buddy. And remember, practicing board sports is a state of mind, you'll probably enjoy much more with your riding mates on the water.
Taking lessons is a great way to begin SUP since the instructor will give you live tips suited to you. If you're around Perth, you can have fun taking lessons with us, it's always a good time !
5 - Learning in the wrong conditions
Learning stand up paddling on a flat water without wind is perfect. If you go on adventures in waves or choppy water don't be surprised going back home wet. Wind is the most important factor when you practice SUP. A windy weather will entirely change your board behaviour so if you're not ready to counter that, we suggest you not to go now.
Point walter next to Perth is a really good place to learn SUP, you always have a spot protected from the wind. You will see dolphins swimming next to your board almost everyday there. We are located next to Swan River if you want to take SUP lessons next to Perth.
