Stand up paddle boarding essentially involves standing upright on a paddleboard and propelling yourself forward. In 2013, SUP became the outdoor sporting activity with the most number of first-timers in the US for that year. If you’re a first-time paddle boarder too, here are some tips to help you out.

Dress for the weather

If you’re going to try this fitness exercise in hot weather, it’s safe to wear sunscreen. And it doesn’t hurt to wear a pair of shades too. But if you’re paddling in cold weather, be sure to wear a wet suit.

Prepare for a full body workout

Stand up paddle boarding is a fitness exercise that involves the use of almost every muscle in your body at some point. If you haven’t exercised in a while, consider a few warm up exercises before you get in the water.

Embrace your fears

When you’re just starting out, falling into the water is almost inevitable. While this may be a cause for worry for some, but preparing yourself for the fall can really help. With a bit of practice, you’ll eventually learn to stand without falling.

Last but not the least, safety first

If you’re getting into water, it’s best to know how to swim. And be sure to check the weather conditions before stepping out. Also, it’s best to start out with a regular sized board to give you stability and in the company of experts.