A BEGINNERS GUIDE TO PADDLEBOARDING
18 June 2026
If you’re looking for a fresh way to get active and spend more time outdoors this summer, paddleboarding is a
great place to start. It’s beginner friendly yet still offers a fun challenge that helps you build balance, core strength and confidence on the water.
Like anything new, it can feel a little intimidating at first, especially when water and standing on a board are involved! But paddleboarding is far more approachable than it might seem. With a bit of guidance and the right mindset, most beginners are surprised by how quickly they get the hang of it.
At North Yorkshire Water Park, we offer paddleboarding sessions to suit all skill levels. If you’re confident on the water, you’re welcome to head out and enjoy a session independently but if you’d prefer a bit more guidance, we also run instructed paddleboarding lessons with experienced staff on hand to support you every step of the way.
For those looking to share the experience, we also offer group sessions for a minimum of four people and up to groups of 30, perfect for friends or family who want to try out something new and have fun on the water.
Looking to take part this summer? Here are our top tips on paddleboarding for beginners:
- Getting equipped
Once you arrive on site and check in for your paddleboarding session, you’ll head down to the lakeside to collect your equipment. This will include everything you need for throughout the session including a board, paddle, wetsuit, and essential safety gear such as a buoyancy aid.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or more experienced, our instructors will help you find the right fit and size, so you feel comfortable and confident on the water.
You’ll start your session with a land-based drill and safety briefing to ensure you are feeling confident and ready to begin your session on the water.
- Start in calm, flat water
The lake is perfect for trying paddleboarding as it provides a calm environment, making it much easier to focus on learning the basics.
You’ll be able to take your time getting used to the board, practicing your balance, and finding your footing without feeling rushed or challenged by strong currents.
With designated areas for paddleboarding, the lake provides a relaxed and supportive setting for the entire experience whilst keeping away from other water sport activities available at the park.
- Begin on your knees first
Finding your balance can be the most challenging aspect of paddleboarding, but once you’ve mastered it, everything else becomes much easier.
Start by kneeling in the centre of your board to get used to its movement and stability before attempting to stand. Don’t worry if you fall in a few times as it’s all part of the experience – it’s also a great way too cool off on a hot summer's day!
- Practice smooth, controlled paddling
Once you’ve mastered your balance, the next step is to focus on your paddling technique, where hand placement plays a bigger role than you might expect.
Place one hand at the top of the paddle and the other halfway down, roughly shoulder width apart. From there, use small, steady strokes to help you glide smoothly across the water and maintain your balance more easily.
Remember to alternate sides as you paddle so you travel in a straight line rather than turning in circles.
- Stand up slowly and stay relaxed
When you feel comfortable with your balance and paddling, you’re ready to try standing up.
Move slowly, one leg at a time, and place your feet where your hands were. Keep your feet shoulder width apart and maintain a slight bend in your knees to help with stability.
Try not to look down at your feet, as this can throw off your balance. Instead, keep your gaze forward and take in the scenic views that the lake has to offer.
Don’t forget – practice makes perfect, so be prepared to fall off a couple of times before you finally master it.
As with all our water sports, there will be an experienced instructor on hand to help you achieve the most out of your session, but with these top tips, you’ll be standing up and paddling with confidence in no time.
For anyone looking to learn stand up paddleboarding, our Level 1 BSUPA course is designed to teach all the necessary skills and safety drills for a long and enjoyable progression in SUP. The two-hour course is run in flat water and at the end of it, you will be presented with your BSUPA Level 1 Ready to Ride Certificate.
For more information on paddleboarding or to book your slot today, visit the paddleboarding page.
