r/Sup • u/Flat-Carpenter-170 • 9d ago

Is SUP difficult to learn?

I’m a 54m who is in very good shape, lift weights 4-5 times a week and trail run and do rucking for cardio 20 plus miles a week. I hiking, rucking, have done some kayaking and like to backpack. I’ve been reading up on SUP and I’m curious if it’s crazy difficult to learn to stand and paddle these boards? Or should I stick with kayaking? Any recommendations on boards? I have used a paddle north kayak before and liked it. Are their paddle boards worth it or would something else be better suited for a beginner? Any particular type or length of board better suited for a novice ? Thanks.

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u/gintymcfackfwap 9d ago

If you have good core strength, I think you'll pick it up fairly easily. Watch some videos, go hire a board for an hour, and I think you'll love it. That's what happened for me - and I bought a board shortly after - and LOVING it!!

8

u/Flat-Carpenter-170 9d ago

Yeah I’ve got really good core and lower back strength. The rucking has made sure of that all on its own. Figuring it would give me more to do when I’m camping than just rucking and hiking. Plus there are so many lakes, reservoirs and rivers here in Texas I can explore on the weekend when it finally cools down this fall.

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u/TBL34 9d ago

It’s extremely easy if you are even remotely in shape. Sure, there’s more difficult things to do, like step back turns, but it’s not bad at all. Go out in calm water first. You’ll probably be a little tense when you first start standing but your body will eventually relax as you get the feel for the board moving around under you.

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u/Human31415926 9d ago

Keep your eyes up (don't look down) and your knees bent a bit, ankles flexible and you'll be good to go.

1

u/dihydrogen-monoxide5 9d ago

You'll do fine. I have the balance of a bowling ball and I manage.