Stand-up paddleboarding is a brilliant way to view the water from a different vantage point whether it is paddling in calm, sheltered water or surfing on the beach. However, it is important to keep yourself safe before you set off to paddle.paddleboarding
You might want to jot these questions down before you stand up paddle and hit the water for a paddle:
- Prepare A Buoyancy Aid If Necessary: British Canoeing strongly recommends that you have both a primary form of floatation, normally your board with the appropriate leash, and a secondary form of floatation, such as a buoyancy aid (BA) or a personal floatation device (PFD).
- Repair Your Board If Necessary: Give your board a quick once-over to check for any issues that may have arisen since you last used it.
- Inflate Your Board To The Correct Pressure: Make sure your board is at the correct PSI pressure. The majority of boards need to be inflated between 18-25 PSI, however, be sure to check yours first!
The following are a couple of other things to remember when paddle boarding;
- Make Sure You Have Your Phone In A Waterproof Case: Carry a telephone or other device that allows you to call for help. Keep it with you at all times.
- Dress Appropriately For The Weather: Layers are ideal, along with water-wicking clothing. Even if it is warm when you set off, pack a few layers in your dry back just in case. If you are paddling in cold weather, make sure you pack gloves, a warm hat, and layers in case you need them.
- Choosing a Footwear Option: Although flip-flops are handy, they are not always the best option for hiking. Consider whether you are likely to be portaging a lot and invest in wet boots with a solid sole, or waterproof trainers.
- Make Sure You Have Some ‘Fix-It-Quick’ Kits: Things never go perfectly, but preparing for them will make them less likely to happen. The simple act of carrying some duct tape and a puncture repair kit can be a lifesaver if it is an inflatable.
- Prepare Your Dry Bag With The Necessities Before You Go Paddling: You may need to consider bringing water, hot drinks, snacks, sunscreen, spare clothes, warm clothing, towels and hats/gloves. A small first aid kit that includes plasters, painkillers, bandages, rehydration sachets, antiseptic wipes, and insect repellent also come in handy.
To Conclude
From a hygiene perspective, the water you paddle on is not always as clean as it appears. On the surface, it looks great, but under a microscope, it may not be as clean. Even though things like Weil’s disease are quite rare, you can pick them up through paddling, but as long as you follow a few steps, you will be fine! On that note, here are some tips for paddleboarding in UK:
- You should not drink water from the surface of the water you are paddling on. Remember to take plenty of water on your trip – you are exercising despite it being fun!
- Once you have been on the water, take a good bath or shower as soon as possible
- Make sure any cuts are properly covered before paddling – you do not want river water or canal water to get in.
- Before eating anything, be sure to wash your hands well or spray antibacterial spray on them.
