Private SUP Lesson

• Practise paddling techniques on the River Thames
• Learn about river safety, launching and landing
• Try different turns and self-rescue techniques

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) has become the fastest growing water sport in recent years and its easy to see why....

1. First and foremost, it’s very easy to learn.
2. It’s a great outdoor activity which stimulates the mind and the body.
3. It's a healthy, low impact, core workout.
4. Gained confidence from paddling.
5. Mental relaxation as you return to nature.

Under the wing of our experienced Paddle Sports Instructors you will get to grips with paddling techniques on a micro-adventure along the River Thames.

During the session you’ll learn about:

1. water safety and the rules of the river
2. launching and landing
3. paddling stances,
4. efficient forward paddling and turning.

Anyone taking to the River on a Private SUP Lesson must:

1. be 8 years or over.
2. be able to swim 50 metres.*
3. be able to paddle their own stand up paddleboard (SUP), without assistance.
4. be accompanied at all times when on the water by an adult if under 18 years.**
5. wear their buoyancy aid at all times whilst on the water.

You will start the session paddling on your knees before transitioning to standing, therefore a degree of flexibility is needed to do this.

*If you are a weak swimmer please do let your instructor know so that they are aware of it.

**The adult to child ratio on the water is 1 adult to 2 children.

For all of our SUP adventures we recommend that you wear shorts, running tights, or similar, and wear a t-shirt with additional layers appropriate for the day. Some people choose to wear a wetsuit. You also need footwear to paddle with, for example a pair of flip flops can be worn to protect your feet and then you can paddle barefoot with them on the board for when you need them.

Starting by kitting you out with a buoyancy aid (aka PFD) we'll run through the basics on land before taking to the water to practice.

The lesson structure is designed to give you the information you need to get on the water safely, have fun and learn the basic techniques of paddle boarding.

During the course you will be given an introduction to how the weather and environment affects you, how to carry the board and paddle, paddling technique, different types of turns and self rescue,

We'll then return the boards, paddles and PFDs before you head off for a well deserved bite to eat and to book your next SUP Adventure!