Great news that you enjoyed paddle boarding and you’re keen to come again! Here’s what to expect at your first members session to make things run super smoothly.
Before you get to the water you’ll need to register online and fill in a medical questionairre. We use a different system for members sessions so if you’ve already done this on your intro you will need to do this again. Sorry – we’re working on this.
When you arrive
Please arrive at the water 10 minutes before the start of the session and be dressed for the weather. We don’t normally provide wetsuits for these sessions so if you want to wear one you’ll need to bring your own. We can provide jackets but most people bring their own waterproofs to speed up kit up and maximise time on the water.
Pop your belongings in the blue storage container (it’s a great big blue wheely bin – don’t worry your kit will be securely stored and not taken out with the recycling!).
Health check
Please let your instructor know if you have any questions, concerns or worries before getting on the water. We’d like to know if you have any niggles, injuries or new medical condiitons. It doesn’t normally stop you getting on the water but the more we know the more we can support you.
Your aims
Do also let us know if there’s anything you’d like to work on during the session. We’re normally fairly hands-off on these sessions but love a bit of 1:1 coaching where we can. Do let us know if there’s anything you’d like to work on. Bear in mind time is limited and our priority is guiding the group, so we may recommend courses or training; like as our popular Fundamentals course. Generally these sessions are super chilled and it’s absolutely fine to not be working on anything, and just be there to enjoy the paddle!
Adjusting paddles
Next, adjust your paddle and ensure the t-grip and blade are aligned correctly. We recommend experimenting with paddle length but a handspan above your head (like Josh, above) is good starting point. For more aggressive paddling you may want to go shorter, whist a more sedate upright style benefits from a longer paddle.
Next, choose your board. Chat to your instructor if you’re not sure which one to go for. Generally though, long = fast. Narrow = wobbly. Once you know what you like if you update your name in Teamup to include your board of choice we’ll do our best to make sure it’s available for sessions you’re booked on. To do this simply change your name on the system – Something like John Smith (11’3 Sport)
Refreshing your skills
If you haven’t been paddling for a while, it might be worth refreshing yourself with some of our video tutorials before you come down – how to get on your board as well as sweeps strokes and forward paddling – let us know if you want some top tips on the water too.
We can’t wait to meet you on the water!