Learn to Stand Up Paddle board in San Blas: Your Ultimate Guide for Beginners. Tips and Tricks

Introduction:

Imagine gliding across turquoise waters, surrounded by an archipelago of idyllic islands. That's what stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) in San Blas, Panama, is like. It's not just a sport; it's a unique experience that allows you to explore these dreamlike landscapes from a privileged perspective. If you're a beginner, don't let insecurity hold you back. With these tips, you'll go from wobbly to paddling with confidence in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Why is paddle surfing perfect for San Blas?

The calm waters protected by reefs and the absence of large waves in many areas of San Blas make it the ideal playground for learning to stand-up paddleboard. It's the perfect way to navigate between the islands, discover secret coves, and observe marine life through the crystal-clear water.

Due to their ease of transport and storage, paddleboards are commonly found on boats. Check the specifications of the boat you're interested in to see what equipment they have:https://www.clickandsailing.com/embarcaciones-sanblas or contact us via WhatsApp .

1. How to Choose Your Paddle Surf Board for San Blas

Learn to Paddle Surf in San Blas

For a trip to San Blas, choosing the right board is crucial. The most practical and recommended option for beginners is, without a doubt:

But since we have the tables on our ships, these details are not relevant now.

The "All-Around" Inflatable Board:

• Main advantage: It's easy to transport. You can take it deflated in your suitcase to Panama and then inflate it on the boat or on the island. In a remote place like San Blas, this is a huge plus.

• Stability: They are wider and more stable, giving you the confidence you need to maintain your balance.

• Durability: They are very durable and better withstand impacts against coral or sand, something common for a beginner.

  
  

What about rigid boards? They're excellent, but transporting them to the San Blas islands can be logistically complicated and expensive.

2. The Art of Standing Up: Your First Step in the Water

The moment of truth! Follow these steps for a smooth transition from water to board.

1. Start on your knees: Bring the board to an area where the water reaches your knees. Place the paddle on the board and get on your knees, right in the center of the board.

   
   

2. Find your balance: Row a little on your knees to get used to the feeling.

   
   

3. Stand Up Calmly: Place your hands on the board and stand up slowly, putting

   Place one foot at a time where your knees were. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and parallel.

   
   

4. Final Position: Bend your knees slightly, keep your back straight, and gaze at the horizon. Don't look at your feet! Looking ahead (at the palm trees and the blue of San Blas!) is the key to maintaining your balance.

   
   

5. How to Hold the Oar Correctly: A common mistake is holding the oar upside down. The blade should be angled forward , away from you. Place one hand on the top handle and the other on the shaft. To check the correct length, lift the oar above your head; your arms should form a 90-degree angle.

   
   

3. The Basic Rowing Techniques You Need

• Rowing Forward:

  

  • Reach: Lean slightly from the hips and plunge the oar into the water, as far forward as you can.

  • Power: Push the entire blade into the oar and pull the paddle back, keeping your arm straight. The power should come from your torso and core, not just your arms!

  • Exit: Take the paddle out of the water when it passes the line of your feet.

  • Recovery: Bring the paddle forward to start again.

    
    

• Turn (Sweep Paddle): To turn, make a wide, arcing motion with the paddle. Sweep from the nose of the board to the tail. If you do this on the right side, you'll turn to the left, and vice versa.

  

  
  

• Braking (Reverse Paddling): It's as simple as paddling forward, but in reverse. Plant the paddle in the water near the tail of the board and push forward.

  

4. What to Bring? Your Essential Gear for San Blas

The climate in San Blas is tropical, but preparation is key.

• Dress:

  • Swimsuit or Bathing Suit: It's the most practical.

  • Lycra Long Sleeve T-Shirt: Essential to protect yourself from the intense tropical sun.

  • Cap or Hat: Make sure it is adjustable so it doesn't blow away in the wind.

  • High SPF and Water Resistant Sunscreen: Reapply every 2 hours! The reflection of water and sun intensifies its effect.

• Safety Equipment:

  • Life jacket: Always. It's essential for your safety and, in many areas, it's mandatory.

  • Leash or ankle strap: Connect it to you and the board. If you fall, the board won't float away, which is crucial in currents.

• Extras:

  • Waterproof Backpack: To store your camera, phone, documents and cash (essential in San Blas).

  • Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated. The sun and physical exertion require it.

    
    

    

5. Key Safety Tips in San Blas

• Never Go Alone: Always row with a partner or in a group.

• Check the weather forecast: Winds can change quickly. If the wind picks up against you, kneel on the board for stability and to paddle with less effort.

• Be careful in the sun: The combination of sunlight and reflection on the water can quickly cause heatstroke. Stay hydrated and protect yourself.

• Respect the Reef: Avoid paddling over live coral. Not only will you damage it, but you could also damage your board or cut yourself.

• Drink Water, Not Alcohol: Stand-up paddleboarding is a sport. Alcohol and water don't mix.

Tips and Tricks for Beginners: Master the Art of Stand-Up Paddleboarding. Learn to Stand-Up Paddleboard in San Blas

Beyond theory, these tricks will make all the difference in your first session in the water. They're the "secrets" every beginner wants to know.

1. The Infallible Trick to Get On the Board

• Not from the shore: Don't try to get on where the water doesn't even cover the board. You'll get stuck. Walk with the board until the water reaches at least your knees.

• The "Crawling" technique: Place the paddle on the board, blade facing upwards. Hold the sides of the board with both hands and jump up, as if climbing onto a raft, ending up on your knees right in the center.

  
  

2. Find Your Sweet Spot of Balance. Kneel on the board and find the point where it floats stably, without tilting either tail or nose. This is your center of gravity. When you stand up, your feet should be exactly where your knees were.

3. Your Eyes Are Your Best Ally. Your instinct will be to look down at your feet to see if they're okay. Don't do it! It's the number one mistake and the main cause of falls. Keep your head up and your eyes always on the horizon. Your body and your balance will naturally follow your gaze.

4. "Surfer" Position for Greater Stability If you feel yourself wobbling or a small wave passes by, don't freeze.

• Bend your knees more.

• Separate your feet a little more.

• Lean your torso slightly forward. This posture, similar to that of a surfer, lowers your center of gravity and gives you instant stability.

  
  

5. Hold the Oar Like a Pro (and Save Energy) A common mistake is tiring your arms. Remember:

• The top hand pushes, the bottom hand provides support. Your hand on the top handle is what actually propels the oar forward. The bottom hand holds firmly but doesn't pull hard.

• Rotate your torso. With each stroke, rotate your shoulders and hips as if you were boxing. The power should come from your core, not your arms. Your abs and back are much stronger.

  
  

6. Paddle in a "U" Shape to Go Straight. Wide beginner boards tend to spin. To go straight and avoid constantly changing sides, try this:

• Make your paddling stroke slightly curved. Instead of paddling completely straight alongside the board, try to angle the paddle slightly away from the board during the push phase, as if drawing a very gentle "U" in the water. This helps counteract the natural roll.

  
  

7. The Wind Is Your Friend... or Your Enemy

• Start by paddling AGAINST the wind. It sounds counterintuitive, but it's a golden trick. Begin your session paddling towards the wind. That way, when you get tired, the wind will help you paddle back effortlessly.

• If the wind is strong, kneel down! Kneeling on the board reduces wind resistance and gives you total control. It's your "safe mode" position.

  
  

8. Falling is Part of the Fun! Don't be afraid to get wet. In a place like San Blas, it's a reward! When you feel yourself losing your balance:

• Don't fight it. Let yourself fall sideways into the water. Avoid falling on your back on the board.

• Use the leash: Your board will always be with you. Hold the paddle with one hand and with the other hold onto the edge of the board to get back on.

  
  

Conclusion: Relax and Enjoy. Stand-up paddleboarding is 90% attitude and 10% technique. Don't pressure yourself to be perfect on your first day. Relax, breathe, enjoy the incredible scenery of San Blas, and celebrate every small achievement. Before you know it, you'll be paddling like you've always done it.

Paddle Surf vs. Kayak in San Blas

• Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP): It offers incredible panoramic views of the fish and seabed. It's a great workout, and the sensation of walking on water is incomparable. Perfect for shorter trips and a quick dip.

• Kayak: It allows you to cover longer distances with less physical effort (for example, to explore several more separated islands). It's more stable if you want to carry more equipment or simply relax.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Paddle Board Beginners

1. Is stand-up paddle boarding hard to learn?No, SUP is one of the easiest water sports to learn. Most people can stand up and paddle comfortably in their first session, especially in calm, flat water like a lake or protected bay.

2. What's better for a beginner, an inflatable or rigid board?For a beginner, an inflatable "all-around" board is generally the best choice. It's more stable, damage-resistant, and extremely portable, making it ideal for learning, traveling, and storage.

3. Will I fall in the water a lot?Yes, especially when starting out. Don't worry, it's part of the fun and the learning process! The key is to learn to fall away from the board to avoid injury and always use a leash.

4. Do I need to know how to swim to try paddle boarding?Yes, it's an essential requirement. Even though you should always wear a life jacket, knowing how to swim will give you the necessary confidence and safety in case you fall into deep water.

5. What should I wear for a paddle boarding session?The essentials include:

• Board, paddle, and leash.

• Life jacket.

• Waterproof sunscreen and a hat.

• Weather-appropriate clothing (swimsuit, rash guard, or wetsuit if it's cold).

• Water in a bottle or hydration pack.

6. How do I choose the right size board?Volume (measured in liters) is key. Beginners need wider and longer boards for greater stability. A general rule is to choose a board with a volume between 180 and 250 liters. Check the manufacturer's size chart based on your weight.

7. Where is the best place to learn?The ideal place is calm, flat water: a lake, a calm sea bay, or a slow-moving river. Avoid areas with boat traffic or strong currents.

8. Can I paddle board in the ocean?Yes, but as a beginner, choose a day with minimal waves and light winds. Start in a protected bay or harbor. Always check the weather and wind forecast before heading out.

9. How do I turn the board?The easiest way for a beginner is the sweep stroke. Place your paddle at the front of the board and make a wide, sweeping arc towards the tail. To turn left, sweep on the right side, and vice versa.

10. Is paddle boarding or kayaking better for a beginner?Both are accessible, but they have different advantages:

• Paddle Boarding: Offers a better full-body workout and a panoramic view. It's ideal for calm water and shorter trips.

• Kayaking: It's faster, more stable, and allows you to cover longer distances with less physical effort. It's better for slightly choppy water or for carrying more gear.

Conclusion: Embrace the Adventure!

San Blas is the perfect place to take your first strokes. With an inflatable board, a little practice, and these tips, you'll be ready for an unforgettable experience. Don't hesitate any longer: the crystal-clear waters of Panama await you. It's your time to master balance and discover the magic of San Blas from your board!