Stand Up Paddling - Taking Your SUP To The Surf

This episode of Paddling TV is brought to you by VicSport Paddle Surf, helping you have more fun and fitness on the water since 1979. For more information, visit vicsup.com. There are all sorts of different reasons people get into stand-up paddling. For some, it's a great way to get outside and get some exercise, while for others, it's the thought of surfing a wave that captures their interest. If you're one of the many people looking to take your SUP to the surf, here are a few rules to follow to make sure your experience is a good one. Golden rule number one, thou shalt not go into the surf zone if there are any swimmers or surfers in the area if you're not experienced. Paddle boards are big and dangerous to other people if they're not controlled. So, when you're learning to surf, find a spot with knee-high waves and no one else is surfing. Golden rule number two, thou shalt always wear a leash. Leashes prevent your board from becoming a runaway missile that could take someone else out. Rule number three, thou shalt hone thy skills on the flat water before paddling out in the surf zone. Stand-up paddling is challenging enough so that learning to paddle properly, to brace, and to move around on your board is fun on flat water. Do yourself and everyone around you a favor, wait until you've developed your balance and feel confident with your stroke before hitting the surf. Golden rule number four, thou shalt learn from those who are more experienced than thyself. Learning from other people's mistakes is a whole lot easier than learning from your own. So, make sure to connect with other paddlers in your area. If you don't already know someone, check with your local SUP retailer or SUP surfing program or browse the web to search for a local SUP club. So there you have it, the four golden rules for taking your SUP to the surf. Follow these golden rules and I guarantee that you'll make your time on the waves more fun and enjoyable. Now it's time to look at specific surf-related skills, starting with how to launch in a surf zone.