Author Topic: looking for advice,  (Read 3620 times)

mjb1959

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looking for advice,
« on: January 16, 2017, 06:03:06 PM »
i have been paddling since september,
to be fair, since i started i have gotten on the lake at every opportunity.
example, i have paddled 8 days this year.

so i have a lot to learn, but i paddle a smallish "canyon lake" (saguaro in AZ)
i struggle with the choppy conditions that i think come from boat wake.
i feel like i am getting better, but any techniques you folks would suggest?
like forward or back on the board?
thanks

Quickbeam

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Re: looking for advice,
« Reply #1 on: January 16, 2017, 06:36:11 PM »
There is quite literally mountains of information online. But probably the best advice I can give you is to take a lesson from a qualified instructor. An instructor who is visually looking at you is in a much better position to offer advice and instruction. If a lesson is available, you won’t regret spending the money.
Infinity Blackfish 12’ 6” x 23”
ONE SUP Evo 12’ 6” x 24”
Infinity Whiplash 12' 6" x 24 1/2"
ONE SUP Evo 12’ 6” x 26”
Bark Competitor 12’ 6” x 29”
Red Paddle Explorer (Inflatable) 13' 2" x 30
Starboard Airline (Inflatable) 12’ 6” x 27

mjb1959

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Re: looking for advice,
« Reply #2 on: January 16, 2017, 06:51:02 PM »
i plan on doing that, thanks!!!

Quickbeam

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Re: looking for advice,
« Reply #3 on: January 16, 2017, 07:28:42 PM »
Great decision. Let us know how your lesson goes!
Infinity Blackfish 12’ 6” x 23”
ONE SUP Evo 12’ 6” x 24”
Infinity Whiplash 12' 6" x 24 1/2"
ONE SUP Evo 12’ 6” x 26”
Bark Competitor 12’ 6” x 29”
Red Paddle Explorer (Inflatable) 13' 2" x 30
Starboard Airline (Inflatable) 12’ 6” x 27

burchas

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Re: looking for advice,
« Reply #4 on: January 16, 2017, 09:34:53 PM »
i plan on doing that, thanks!!!

As Quickbeam suggested a qualified instructor can only do you good.

One thing I found that helped me at the beginning was keeping the ryhtem
and don't let the board lose momentum while paddling through the wakes.

I was anticipating getting hit by the wakes and was setting my self for fall.
Instead, I started powering through the wakes keeping the board moving forward.
Sure I went in many times but quickly it became a thing of the past.

Just make sure that when you're about to go in, embrace the fall and don't try to hang-on
just to avoid falling on your board or paddle and break something.

Another suggestion is looking into getting a good fin. If you're using the same fin that
came with your board, chances are it's a very basic fin and may not serve you well.
at least that was case with my board that had a cheap plastic fin. After upgrading my
fin, the board felt much more stable. There is ton of information here in the forum about
good fins.
in progress...

mjb1959

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Re: looking for advice,
« Reply #5 on: January 17, 2017, 06:40:32 PM »
re, burchas...
 good advice, i did already upgrade to a "fcs II fatboy 10 inch" fin
it took a little dremel tool shaving fore and aft on the base to get it to fit,
but the results are definitely worth it!

Zooport

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Re: looking for advice,
« Reply #6 on: January 17, 2017, 07:41:40 PM »
All good advice above.  Let me offer what I know about balance from SUP surfing.

1. Use your paddle to brace against any off-balance issue you have.  IE, if you feel yourself tipping to the right, stick your paddle out to the right and push against the water.  This alone will usually keep you from falling.

2. Stay constantly aware of the horizon.  The water does not make a good visual reference for keeping your balance, but being aware of the horizon is stable and helps a lot.

3.  Keep your knees slightly bent.  Don't stand lock kneed.  You will be able to absorb boat wakes and small waves.

4.  If you feel yourself really going over bad, crouch into a squat and brace at the same time.  This will stop 99% of all fall overs.
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robcasey

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Re: looking for advice,
« Reply #7 on: April 20, 2017, 03:22:10 PM »
Was just in Gilbert, loved the heat (50 in Seattle).  Tips..

- Paddle more. Get to where you can't remember how many times you've been out.
- For boat wakes, bend your knees (shock absorbers) and paddle with short quick strokes (to your feet). Don't turn into the wave, keep your regular course and paddle!  When the wave hits you, don't freeze or try to balance - get low (like J-lo) and paddle!  In time learn to surf those wakes.
- It's ok to fall if you're dressed for the water temps. Don't let falling be an issue. always wear your leash to stay connected to your board.
- In bumps, use a sweeping brace for stability. Apply when you feather the blade - just lower it so it hydroplanes over the water vs in the air. 
http://stokemagazine.blogspot.com/2016/10/stay-drier-with-sweeping-brace.html
Rob Casey
Salmon Bay Paddle
PSUPA
Seattle

 


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