Definition

SUP is best defined as a paddle sport, not as a surf sport. The use of a paddle is the essential point of difference from conventional surfing, allowing the paddler to travel on lake, river or sea, well away from the surf or the shoreline.

Part of being a good instructor, is having the knowledge and capabilities to prevent and if need be, react to emergency situations.

This can be done through the use of appropriate equipment and being aware of weather conditions. However through experience we have learnt that the unexpected can happen which is why having a thorough understanding of rescue techniques is so important.

Being a good instructor demands sound and effective teaching and interacting with students, provision of a safe learning environment, the skills to manage a group both on land and on water and having the skills, ability and knowledge to respond to an emergency situation should it arise.

1. Definitions, Origins and Comparisons

SUP has its origins in the Hawaiian Islands and combines two of their traditional sports, notably Outrigger Canoeing and Surfing. By definition, paddlers utilise a large board similar to that of surfboard, of adequate volume and stability to support their weight while they paddle the board using an extended canoe paddle to propel the board over water, employing a forward canoeing stroke combined with directional steering strokes and varying weight placement to control direction.

SUP manufacturers, retailers and websites, promote this activity as multi-faceted.

(i)A paddling activity on inland waterways (lakes, rivers, dams, creeks) or sheltered flat-water ocean environments (estuaries, lagoons, bays)

(ii)An ocean racing paddling sport covering long distances whether between islands, point to point or on inland-waters.

(iii)Adventure paddling, involving long distances tours/journeys on inland waterways, or sheltered ocean waters. This forms the basis for example, of new business ventures, some offering tours down stream, with camping as part of the experience.

(iv)A form of surfing in the ocean within a surf zone.

(v)A platform from which to carry out a number of exercise routines.

The mass appeal of SUP sport, is closer to that of canoeing or kayaking than it is surfing. Flat water paddling and cruising in sheltered areas utilising appropriate equipment, represents the entry level to the sport for most individuals possessing little or no water sports experience.

Consequently this is the area of concern, which facilitators must predominantly focus upon and ultimately where the greatest potential for mass-appeal exists, for the individual, families and couples.

Progression of ability via improved paddling and board skills combined with conditioning and geographical proximity, leads some participants to be attracted to the more technically advanced SUP disciplines of open water paddling, surfing or both.

2. Nomenclature and its Implications

(i)Where the sport has been termed “Paddle Surfing” this implies the sport is a surf sport, the use of a paddle not necessarily the primary means of power.

(ii)Where the sport is termed “Stand Up Paddleboarding” this implies the participant is paddling while standing on a board using a paddle, avoiding association as to where the sport is practised or in what form.

(iii)“Stand Up Paddle” is an additional nomenclature.

This confusion reiterates the need for educators in particular to establish a clear definitive classification for the sport in regards to being predominantly a paddle sport over that of a surf sport. Paddle Surfing and Stand Up Paddleboarding, are used interchangeably to mean the same activity, or, by different people to mean quite different activities.

Benefits and Attractions of the Sport

SUP provides many varied benefits, both social and physical, though these benefits also present some inherently obvious hazards and some more insidious.

Benefits and attractions of the sport include:

Easy entry. Family orientated. Promotes good balance. Potential to develop core strength and conditioning of the body. Versatility. Coastal or inland use. Nurtures a broad range of motor co-ordination skills. Varied skills acquisition (paddling and surfing skills). Socialisation. Fulfils the need to be active. Available to all. Relatively inexpensive. Provides a platform for exploration and adventuring. A means of cross training between similar or dissimilar sports. A new sport fostering brotherhood between participants. Opportunity to engage in competition. Opportunity to travel and participate overseas. Advantages over other paddle sport costs. Less reliant on accessories over other paddle sports. Relatively safe when compared to kayaking and many other paddle sports. The ultimate ‘open’ entrapment-free paddling discipline. Easily transportable. Enjoyment can be had at any level of competence. Extensive workout, more so than sit-down paddling. Escapism. Remedial proprioception therapy for the handicapped and injured.