Avoid Stand Up Paddleboarding Accidents and Injuries

Stand up paddleboarding (affectionately termed “SUP” by those in the know) is the latest water activity to take the beaches, lakes, and other waterways by storm throughout the country. SUP is particularly popular in Florida, where locals and tourists are able to enjoy the sport year-round.  Combining surfing with kayaking, stand up paddleboarding provides an excellent total body workout by building core, leg, and upper body strength as well as improving balance and coordination.

Unfortunately, this popular new sport has been marred by injuries and even a recent death. Last year, a 35-year-old man paddleboarding on Lake Washington drowned after falling from his board into the water.  The official blog of the U.S. Coast Guard  offers the following life-saving safety tips for paddleboarders to stay safe and injury-free on the water:

1. Wear a lifejacket and carry a whistle
2. Be a competent swimmer
3. Know how to self rescue
4. Know how to tow another board
5. Know the local regulations and navigation rules
6. Understand the elements and hazards – winds, tidal ranges, current, and terrain
7. Know when to wear a leash
8. Be defensive – don’t go where you aren’t supposed to be and avoid other swimmers, boaters, paddleboards
9. Use proper blade angle to be the most efficient paddle boarder
10. Take a safety course

It’s important to note that the Coast Guard considers a paddleboard to be a vessel when it is used “beyond the narrow limits of a swimming, surfing or bathing area.” Paddleboarders beyond such areas are therefore required to wear a personal floatation device such as a life jacket. Below are additional helpful hints to maximize safety and technique while paddleboarding:

• Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages before or during any water activity
• Remain with your board at all times
• Use the paddle to maintain balance and avoid falling off the board
• Stand in the middle of the board with your feet shoulder length apart, facing forward (unless the water is choppy, in which case standing sideways in a surfer pose is preferable)
• Practice turning, stopping, and shifting your weight from one foot to the other in calm, flat water until you feel in control of the board and your movements

With these tips in mind—along with a little practice—your stand up paddleboarding experience should be exhilarating, enjoyable, and free of accidents or injuries.