2 Stand Up Guys Tips

Tip #1  (4/25/11) - When choosing a paddle to purchase, extend your arm as far vertical as it will go to measure the length. You want the handle of the paddle to be 1-3 inches above your wrist line. People will tell you different lengths. In teaching for over a year, we have found that it is better to have a paddle that is too long rather than too short. The reason being is that you get more reach out of your stroke and less strain on your body from bending over with a longer paddle. Good luck, go get em'.

Tip #2  (7/11/11) - How do you deal with an oncoming wake or wave? Whether in flat water or in the ocean you will be challenged with the occasional rouge wave or wake from a boat. The best way to deal with these moving obstacles is not to panic. Calmly paddle on one side or the other and face directly at the source of energy (i.e., wave). In other words, get your board facing directly perpendicular to the wake or wave and then get your speed up. Make sure you are standing far enough back on your board so that the nose does not (pearl) submerge itself into the wave. As it passes underneath you the most important rule is to "keep paddling" the whole time. It will feel like a speed bump passing underneath your board. If your board gets turned sideways in this process then switch sides paddling and straighten it back out. Keep your eyes focused ahead of you and not down at your feet. Before you know it, you’ve made it over without spilling. Congratulations.