Learn To SUP
Below is a guide to help you identify your particular paddling path - general concepts of recommended skills you should work towards based on your goals. Some of these skills are beneficial in all areas and some can be learned on their own with minimal other skills. Our American Canoe Association (ACA)-certified instructors will teach you all of the skills and tips you need to enjoy stand up paddle boarding.
Essentials (beginner-intermediate) classes are designed to develop the basic skills needed for self-sufficiency in calm water environments. This is for you if you are new to the sport or if you are looking for more formal instruction to round out your skill set.
Areas of Focus
- Tides and currents (classroom and on-water)
- Basic trip planning (classroom and on-water)
- Understanding equipment, applications, and limitations
- Basic strokes and maneuvers
- Calm, protected water environment and tidal environments
- Mild weather conditions
Proficiency (beginner- intermediate) Proficiency classes are for those looking to advance and refine their skills to become more efficient and rounded SUP paddlers. Developing these skills will increase confidence to expand into new environments and conditions.
Areas of Focus
- Tides and currents (classroom and on-water)
- Trip planning (classroom and on-water)
- Navigation (classroom and on-water)
- Forward paddling efficiency
- Bracing and support strokes
- Advanced maneuvers/stroke refinement
- Advanced control in currents
- Introduction to ocean paddling
- Tidal water environments
- Mild to modest weather conditions
- ACA skills assessments
Dynamic water (intermediate-advanced) classes are for those looking for a little more adrenaline kick with their SUP paddling. Classes aim to expand skills for paddling and play in rougher water environments such as the surf zone or coastal areas.
Areas of Focus
- Bracing and support stokes
- Introduction to ocean Paddling
- Introduction to the surf zone
- SUP surfing
- Rough water play
- Coastal and tidal water environments
- Mild to modest weather conditions
- ACA skills assessments
Step out of the gym and onto a board for SUP fitness! SUP fitness builds on the foundation of stand up paddleboarding and core stability by adding elements of cardio, balance, strength, and flexibility. SUP fitness classes are scheduled late spring and summer.
Gentle yoSUP
Stand-up paddleboarding meets yoga on the lake, a beginner-friendly setting with no current or tide. Calm water allows participants to focus on poses to stretch and strengthen the torso, hips, and legs while quieting the mind and creating a state of ease through breath and relaxation. Open to all levels.
Power yoSUP
Prepare to work up a sweat in this fitness-based approach to yoga on the paddle board. Participants flow from one pose to another using breath as an anchor to increase strength, flexibility, and calorie burn. Yoga and paddleboarding experience preferred.