Yes, you can learn to paddle board easily. The best way for a beginner to start is by taking a course in a safe, controlled environment like a calm reservoir. This allows you to learn the basic skills of balancing, paddling, and self-rescue with expert guidance. All you need is a stable board, a correctly sized paddle, and essential safety gear, which is provided on a good beginner’s course.
Your First Step into Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Stand-up paddle boarding, or SUP, is one of the UK’s favourite water sports. It is a fantastic mix of gentle exercise and peaceful exploration, letting you connect with nature from a new angle. Forget images of experts on huge waves; the reality for newcomers is far more relaxed.
The key to a good start is learning in the right place. A calm, enclosed location like Farmoor Reservoir removes the challenge of tides and currents. This setting lets you focus purely on the basics: finding your balance, mastering the paddle stroke, and enjoying being on the water.
Why Safety and Confidence Come First
Building confidence from your first session is vital. At Oxford Sail Training Trust, our whole approach is built on creating a secure and encouraging atmosphere. We make sure every beginner feels supported, which is essential for having a great time.
At its heart, paddle boarding is about personal progress. It’s not a race. It is about the simple pleasure of gliding across the water, powered by your own effort.
For families and individuals, this focus on a secure environment is paramount. We believe a positive introduction to any water sport begins with feeling safe. That is why all our instructors are trained to create a supportive space for learning. You can learn more about our principles for creating a safe and fun environment before you arrive.
Starting with a recognised course removes the guesswork of learning alone. Instead of worrying about equipment, you can relax and focus on the fun. With an instructor by your side, you will learn proven techniques to get you standing and paddling efficiently.
Your First Paddle Boarding Kit
The best way to get started is to join a guided session where you do not need to buy any equipment. When you arrive for a course at Oxford Sail Training Trust, we provide all the gear you need to get out on the water safely. This means you can focus on learning and having fun, without the upfront cost.
Still, understanding the kit you will be using is a big part of building your confidence. Knowing what each piece does will help you feel much more prepared. Let’s look at the essential items you will use during your lesson.
The Right Board for Learning
The most important piece of equipment is the board itself. For your first time, you will use an inflatable stand-up paddle board (iSUP). These are perfect for beginners because they are incredibly stable, tough, and more forgiving if you fall. Unlike hard boards, they have a slightly softer surface, which makes them more comfortable for kneeling and climbing back on.
Your Paddle and Safety Essentials
Your paddle is your engine. Getting the size right is crucial for an efficient and comfortable stroke.
- Sizing Your Paddle: A good rule is that the paddle should be about 15-25 cm taller than you. We will show you how to adjust it so the handle rests comfortably in your palm when your arm is stretched up.
- Buoyancy Aid: This is non-negotiable safety kit. You will always wear a buoyancy aid during our sessions. It is designed to keep you afloat and give you extra confidence.
- Leash: The leash tethers you to your board. If you fall off, it stops your board from drifting away, so you can easily pull it back towards you.
Remember, falling in is a completely normal part of learning. With a buoyancy aid and a leash, it’s just a quick splash before you’re back on the board.
What to Wear for Your Session
Choosing the right clothing is all about staying comfortable. The golden rule is to avoid cotton, as it gets heavy and cold when wet.
On a warm day, lightweight, quick-drying sportswear is perfect. Think synthetic t-shirts, leggings, or shorts. If it’s cooler, a wetsuit is best for staying warm, and we can provide one for you. You will also want to bring a pair of old trainers or water shoes you do not mind getting wet.
Finally, think about the small extras. Staying hydrated is important, so consider choosing a versatile collapsible water bottle. A hat and sun cream are also must-haves for bright days.
From The Shore to Standing Up
The best way to learn to stand up on a paddle board is to start on your knees. This gives you a stable base to get used to the feel of the board on the water. From there, you can progress to a standing position in a few simple, controlled steps. We teach this method in all our beginner lessons.
The journey from kneeling to standing is a simple, confidence-building process. Let’s break it down into easy chunks.
Launching Your Board Safely
Your first contact with the water begins with launching your board. Find a spot where the water is at least knee-deep. This is just deep enough to stop the fin on the back of the board from dragging on the bottom. Place the board gently on the water, pointing away from the shore.
Getting On From Your Knees
The most stable way to get onto your board is from your knees. Do not try to jump straight to your feet.
Place your paddle across the board in front of you. Use it like a stabiliser by placing your hands on either side of the centre handle. Bring one knee up onto the middle of the board, then the other. You should now be in a solid kneeling position with your knees about shoulder-width apart.
Stay relaxed. Your board is designed to be stable. Keep your weight low and centred, and take a moment to get used to the gentle movement of the water.
Finding Your Balance While Kneeling
Before you stand, spend a few minutes paddling from your knees. It’s a great way to get a feel for how the board moves.
- Grip the Paddle: Hold the paddle with one hand on the T-grip at the top and the other hand about halfway down the shaft.
- Take Your First Strokes: Reach forward, dip the blade fully into the water, and pull it back towards your knees. Alternate sides every few strokes to keep the board moving straight.
- Look Forward: This is the most important tip. Resist the urge to look down at your feet. Your balance follows your gaze, so keep your eyes on the horizon.
This practice builds huge confidence. You will quickly realise the board is far more stable than you thought.
Making The Transition to Standing Up
Once you feel comfortable on your knees, it is time to stand up. This should be a smooth, deliberate movement.
Start from your kneeling position. Place your hands flat on the board. Bring one foot forward and plant it flat where your knee was. Then, do the same with the other foot. You will now be in a low crouch, with your feet shoulder-width apart. From this crouch, slowly straighten your legs to stand up, keeping your knees slightly bent. Grab your paddle, and you are ready to go.
The Basic Paddle Stroke Technique
Now that you’re standing, let’s nail the paddle stroke. An efficient stroke uses your whole body, not just your arms.
- The Catch: Reach forward with your paddle and plunge the entire blade into the water.
- The Power Phase: Use your core and back muscles to pull the board past the paddle.
- The Recovery: Once the blade is level with your feet, lift it cleanly out of the water and swing it forward for the next stroke.
Keep your strokes close to the side of the board and switch sides every four or five strokes to maintain a straight course.
The Fall and Getting Back On
Falling in is part of the fun. It happens to everyone. The water at Farmoor is refreshing, and your buoyancy aid will pop you straight back to the surface.
When you fall, try to fall away from your board. Your leash will keep your board from floating away. Getting back on is simple. Swim to the middle of your board and grab the handle. Kick your legs to help you pull your torso onto the board. From there, it’s easy to get back to your knees and stand up again.
Common Beginner Mistakes And How To Fix Them
Everyone makes a few mistakes when learning something new. On a paddle board, these slip-ups are valuable lessons. Spotting common habits early is the quickest way to improve and get more enjoyment out of your time on the water.
Holding The Paddle Backwards
This is the most common mistake. People assume the scooped part of the blade should face them. In reality, the blade should angle away from you. This design lets the blade slice cleanly into the water, giving you maximum power.
The Quick Fix: Before you paddle, check that the angle where the blade joins the shaft points away from you and towards the nose of your board.
Looking Down At Your Feet
Your body follows your eyes. If you stare at your feet, you will feel wobbly. It is the number one cause of poor balance for beginners. Lift your gaze and look towards the horizon. Your posture will straighten, your core will engage, and your body will make the tiny adjustments needed to keep you balanced.
Standing Too Stiffly
When the board feels unsteady, the natural instinct is to lock your knees. This stiffness actually makes you more likely to fall. Your body cannot absorb the small movements of the water.
How to Relax Your Stance
- Bend Your Knees: Always keep a soft bend in your knees.
- Keep Your Hips Loose: Allow your hips to sway gently with the board’s motion.
- Stay Light on Your Feet: Imagine you are ready to react, not planted to the spot.
A relaxed, athletic stance is the secret to feeling stable. It is also a reminder to be aware of safety. We recommend that all water sports enthusiasts consider taking a specialised course like our watersports first aid training.
Only Using Your Arms To Paddle
If your arms feel exhausted after a short time, you are probably paddling with just your arms. A truly effective paddle stroke is a full-body movement that starts from your core. Think of your arms as levers connecting the paddle to your torso. The real power comes from rotating your torso. This technique lets you paddle for longer with far less effort.
Start Your Paddle Boarding Journey With Us
The best way to start your journey is with a beginner’s course. An introductory course teaches you the core skills correctly and builds confidence in a safe, fun environment. At Oxford Sail Training Trust, we offer several courses designed to get you started on the calm waters of Farmoor Reservoir. We supply all the gear, expert coaching, and a warm welcome.
Our structured courses are the ideal way to get into paddle boarding. Let’s look at the options we offer.
Our RYA Start Stand Up Paddleboarding Course
For most adults, the perfect starting point is our RYA Start Stand Up Paddleboarding course. It is a friendly, half-day session designed for complete beginners. In a small, supportive group, our qualified instructors will guide you through all the essentials, including:
- Equipment basics and setup.
- Safe launching and landing.
- Moving from kneeling to standing with confidence.
- Essential paddle strokes for moving, stopping, and turning.
- Crucial self-rescue skills, including how to get back on your board.
By the end, you will have the fundamental skills needed to feel in control on the water.
Fun for Families, Friends and Juniors
Paddle boarding is a brilliant activity to share with others. We offer several options for groups and younger paddlers.
- Family & Friends Sessions: If you prefer to learn in a private group, these sessions are ideal. You can book an instructor for up to six people for a personalised experience. Find out more about our adult and family paddling sessions.
- Junior Courses & Multi-Activity Weeks: For younger adventurers (aged 8 and over), we run dedicated junior courses and action-packed multi-activity weeks during school holidays. These give children the chance to try paddle boarding alongside other sports like sailing and windsurfing in a safe, supervised setting.
Once you become comfortable on your board, the world of water sports opens up. We encourage you to discover more adventure opportunities around Lake Bled, a prime location for water sports.
Which OSTT Paddle Boarding Course Is Right For You?
Choosing the right starting point is key to a great first experience. Here is a quick comparison of our main paddle boarding sessions to help you decide.
| Course Name | Best For | What You’ll Learn | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| RYA Start SUP Course | Complete adult beginners wanting a structured introduction. | Core skills: balance, basic strokes, self-rescue, and safety. | Half-Day |
| Family & Friends Session | Families or small groups (up to 6) wanting a private, tailored lesson. | A personalised introduction to SUP based on the group’s needs. | 2 Hours |
| Junior Courses | Children aged 8+ looking for dedicated, age-appropriate tuition. | Fun-focused learning of basic SUP skills in a safe environment. | Varies |
| Multi-Activity Weeks | Children aged 8+ wanting to try SUP alongside other water sports during school holidays. | A taster of paddle boarding as part of a wider water sports experience. | 5 Days |
No matter which path you choose, our goal is the same. We want to guide you from being a nervous first-timer to a competent paddler who feels at home on the water. With our expert team and proven courses, you will gain the skills and confidence to explore Farmoor Reservoir and beyond.
Your Paddle Boarding Questions Answered
Yes, you can paddle board as a complete beginner. It is natural to have questions before you start. Here are answers to some of the most common queries we hear from new paddlers to help you feel prepared.
Do I Need to Be a Strong Swimmer?
No, you do not need to be an Olympic-level swimmer, but being comfortable around water helps. For your safety, everyone on our courses wears a buoyancy aid. This is designed to keep you floating comfortably if you fall in. Our instructors are always nearby in safety boats on the calm waters of Farmoor Reservoir, and we teach you a simple technique for getting back onto your board.
What Should I Wear for My First Lesson?
You should wear comfortable, practical clothing. On a warm day, quick-drying sportswear like leggings or shorts and a synthetic t-shirt is perfect. Avoid cotton, as it gets cold and heavy when wet. If it is cooler, a wetsuit is best for staying warm, and we can provide one for you. You will also need old trainers or water shoes. Don’t forget a towel and a change of clothes for afterwards.
Part of learning to paddle board is figuring out what kit works for you. Starting with the right clothing means you can focus on having fun without getting cold or uncomfortable.
Is Paddle Boarding a Good Workout?
Yes, it is a fantastic full-body workout that is gentle on your joints. Balancing on the board engages your core muscles, while the paddling motion works your arms, shoulders, and back. Your legs also work constantly to keep you stable. It is a brilliant way to build strength and improve balance without feeling like you are exercising.
Can I Bring My Children Along?
Yes, paddle boarding is a wonderful activity for the whole family. At Oxford Sail Training Trust, we offer private ‘Family & Friends’ sessions where groups of up to six can learn together. We also run dedicated junior courses and multi-activity holiday weeks for children aged 8 and over. It is a superb way to build water confidence and enjoy the outdoors as a family.
Ready to start your adventure? At Oxford Sail Training Trust, we provide everything you need to begin your paddle boarding journey with confidence. Book your beginner’s course with us today!
