How to Start Paddleboarding or Kayaking: A Beginner’s Guide

Whether you’re looking for a new way to explore calm waters or searching for an outdoor activity that combines fitness with fun, both paddleboarding and kayaking are excellent choices. These water sports offer a fantastic way to connect with nature, enjoy scenic views, and even get a full-body workout. But if you’ve never paddled before, it can be a little intimidating to know where to start.

Don’t worry though—starting your paddleboarding or kayaking adventure is easier than you think! This guide will take you step-by-step through everything you need to know to get started, from choosing the right equipment to learning basic techniques, and tips for enjoying your first outing on the water.

1. Understanding Paddleboarding and Kayaking

Before you dive into the details, it’s important to understand the basic differences between the two sports.

Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding, or Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP), involves standing on a large, stable board and using a long paddle to propel yourself across the water. It’s an excellent full-body workout and requires balance, coordination, and some strength. Paddleboards are wider and more stable than surfboards, making them easier for beginners to balance on.

Kayaking

Kayaking, on the other hand, involves sitting in a small boat-like vessel, called a kayak, and using a double-bladed paddle to navigate through the water. Kayaks come in different designs, such as sit-on-top (easier for beginners) or sit-inside (which offer more protection). Kayaking can be done in a variety of conditions, from calm lakes to challenging rapids, depending on the type of kayak and your skill level.

While both sports offer similar benefits in terms of physical activity and access to beautiful landscapes, your choice of which to try will depend on what type of experience you want—whether it’s standing and balancing on a board or sitting comfortably while you paddle.

2. Choosing the Right Equipment

Paddleboarding Gear

Paddleboard
- Length: Longer boards (12–14 feet) are faster and better for touring or covering distance. Shorter boards (8–10 feet) are more maneuverable and better for surfing or recreational use.
- Width: Wider boards (around 30–34 inches) offer more stability, making them better for beginners.
- Material: Inflatable boards are lightweight, portable, and durable. Hard boards (foam or fiberglass) are typically more rigid and offer better performance in various conditions but require more storage space.
Paddle
- A good paddle should be lightweight and adjustable to fit your height and paddling style. Most paddles are made of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or aluminum.
Safety Gear
- A Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is a must for safety, and in many locations, it’s legally required.
- A Leash is also recommended, as it prevents your board from drifting away if you fall off.

Kayaking Gear

Kayak
- Sit-on-top Kayaks are great for beginners because they are easier to get in and out of, and they are stable on calm waters.
- Sit-inside Kayaks are ideal for colder or rougher waters, as they offer more protection from the elements.
- Length: Shorter kayaks (8–10 feet) are more maneuverable, while longer kayaks (12–16 feet) are faster and track better in open water.
Paddle
- Choose a paddle that’s the right length for your height and kayak width. Most paddles are made from lightweight materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber.
Safety Gear
- PFD: As with paddleboarding, a life vest is essential for safety in kayaking.
- Helmet: If you plan on kayaking in rough or whitewater conditions, a helmet will help protect your head.
- Spray Skirt: This is useful for sit-inside kayaks to keep water from splashing into the boat during more challenging conditions.

3. Learning Basic Techniques

Paddleboarding Techniques

Getting On the Board
- Start by kneeling on the board in the water. Place your paddle across the board in front of you to stabilize it.
- Slowly rise to a standing position, keeping your knees slightly bent and feet about shoulder-width apart. The wider your stance, the more stability you’ll have.
- Look ahead (not down at your feet) to help with balance.
Paddling
- Hold the paddle with both hands—one hand on the grip and the other on the shaft.
- To paddle, place the blade in the water in front of you and push it backward, alternating sides. This creates forward motion.
- Make sure to keep your body relaxed, and rotate your torso with each stroke rather than just using your arms.
Turning
- Sweep Stroke: To turn, take a long stroke on one side of the board and sweep it out in a wide arc. This will turn the board in the opposite direction.
- Reverse Stroke: To turn quickly or stop, paddle backward on one side of the board.
Falling
- Falling off the board is completely normal, especially when you’re starting. If you fall, just try to relax and swim back to your board. The leash will help you stay connected to the board.

Kayaking Techniques

Getting Into the Kayak
- When entering from the shore or a dock, place the kayak in the water, then step into it while keeping your weight balanced.
- If you’re using a sit-on-top kayak, sit down and adjust your legs comfortably inside. For a sit-inside kayak, slide into the cockpit, ensuring your feet are flat on the footrests.
Paddling
- Hold the double-bladed paddle with your hands about shoulder-width apart. Keep your arms slightly bent and use your torso to generate power rather than just your arms.
- To paddle forward, dip one blade into the water on one side, then alternate sides with each stroke. Keep the paddle close to the kayak for efficiency.
Turning
- To turn the kayak, paddle harder on one side to initiate a turn. To do a sharp turn, use a technique called a “draw stroke,” where you pull the paddle toward the side of the kayak to change direction.
- Reverse Stroke: Paddle backward on both sides to slow down or reverse direction.
Maneuvering in Rough Waters
- If you’re planning on kayaking in rough waters, always practice basic strokes in calm conditions first. Learn how to perform a high brace and low brace to keep your kayak stable in choppy conditions.

4. Choosing the Best Locations for Your First Experience

Whether you’re paddleboarding or kayaking, choosing the right location is key to a successful first outing.

For Paddleboarding:

Lakes and Calm Rivers: Ideal for beginners since the water is usually flat and easy to navigate.
Coastal Waters: If you want to try the ocean, choose a beach with calm, protected waters, such as an inlet or bay.

For Kayaking:

Lakes and Calm Rivers: Like paddleboarding, these environments offer a gentle introduction to kayaking. Look for places with little to no current for a relaxed experience.
Coastal Waterways: If you’re more adventurous, consider paddling in coastal areas, but be mindful of tides and waves.

5. Safety Tips for Beginners

Both paddleboarding and kayaking are relatively safe, but like any water activity, they do come with some risks. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

Wear Your PFD: Always wear a personal flotation device when paddleboarding or kayaking, even if you’re a confident swimmer. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Know Your Limits: Stay in calm, shallow waters when starting out, and avoid strong currents or waves until you’re more experienced.
Check the Weather: Be aware of the forecast before heading out. Avoid windy or stormy conditions, and always paddle in safe, calm weather.
Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle with you and hydrate regularly, especially on hot days.
Practice Basic Strokes: Familiarize yourself with essential paddling techniques on land before venturing into the water.

6. The Benefits of Paddleboarding and Kayaking

Both paddleboarding and kayaking provide excellent health benefits, making them worthwhile sports to try:

Full-Body Workout: Both activities engage the core, arms, and legs, offering a great cardio workout while toning muscles.
Stress Relief: Being on the water allows you to disconnect from daily stress and immerse yourself in nature.
Balance and Coordination: Paddleboarding, in particular, helps improve balance, while kayaking requires coordination between both sides of your body.
Low Impact: Both sports are gentle on the joints, making them suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Final Thoughts

Starting with paddleboarding or kayaking doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right equipment, some basic techniques, and a little practice, you’ll soon be enjoying the water and reaping the many benefits these activities have to offer. Whether you prefer the tranquility of a stand-up paddleboard or the adventure of a kayak, both provide endless opportunities for exploration and fun on the water. So grab your paddle, find a beautiful body of water, and start your journey today!