SUP 101: Stand-Up Paddleboarding Basics

Curious about paddleboarding but not quite sure where to start? Start here.

SUP 101 is a beginner-friendly introduction to stand-up paddleboarding designed to help you feel safe, comfortable and confident on the water—even if you've never stepped on a paddleboard before.

We'll begin on land so you can get familiar with your equipment before we ever head onto the water. You'll learn the anatomy of your board, how to properly hold and adjust your paddle, how your PFD and leash work, and the basic safety skills every paddler should know.

Then we'll take it to the water and put it into practice.

During SUP 101, you'll learn:

• Board anatomy, equipment setup and paddle basics

• Essential water and weather safety

• How to safely enter the water and get onto your board

• Where to position yourself on the board

• How to begin paddling comfortably from your knees

• How to transition from kneeling to standing

• Proper stance, soft knees and body position for better balance

• Basic forward paddle strokes

• How to stop, slow down and turn your board

• What to do when the board starts to wobble

• How to fall safely—and, just as importantly, how to get yourself back onto your board

• Simple techniques that help you conserve energy and feel more comfortable as you paddle

And no—you do not have to stand up immediately.

We'll meet you where you are. You can begin on your knees, take your time and progress when you're ready. Falling in is a completely normal part of learning to paddle, and we'll practice the skills that help you know what to do if it happens.

No previous paddleboarding experience is required.

SUP 101 is also a great starting point if you're interested in joining our Breathe In, Paddle Out™ Couch to 5K journey or you're thinking about paddling the Turkey SUP 5K and want to build your skills and confidence first.

Come ready to learn, laugh, get a little wet and discover just how much fun it can be to get out on the water.

You don't have to already be a paddleboarder to become one.

Breathe in. Paddle out.

What to Bring

Come prepared to get wet and spend some time outside. We recommend bringing:

• 💧 Water bottle — hydration is important on the water

• 📱 Waterproof phone/camera case — especially if you'd like to take photos

• 👟 Water shoes — something secure that can get wet

• 🏖️ Towel and a change of clothes if you'd like

• ☀️ Sunblock

• 🦟 Bug spray

• 🧢 Hat

• 🕶️ Sunglasses — preferably with a strap/retainer so they don't become part of Lake Conroe 😄

Dress for the water, not the weather on shore. Quick-drying, comfortable clothing works best.

Your paddleboard, paddle, PFD and required equipment are provided unless you've registered to bring your own board.