FAQ's

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STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING - WHAT'S YOUR sLLEVEL?

Stand up paddle boarding is a becoming a very popular pastime. It was originally called "beach boy surfing", named after the famous Waikiki beach boys, who combined their outrigger canoe paddling skills with their surfing skills. Stand up paddle surfing (SUP) begins on flat water, where you find your balance on the oversized boards. Stand-up boards are larger and more stable than surfing longboards, which makes them more stable. The boards are ridden standing up, so some initial balance is required. The rider uses a long shafted paddle for propulsion and steering. There are different strokes you learn to help turn, and paddle efficiently.

Standup has grown into a worldwide phenomenon. It has become many things to different people; a recreational pastime, a competitive sport, a social release or a great way to get a core workout.  SUP has become popular on lakes and rivers around Saskatchewan.  SUP has great appeal for wave surfers and many devote and participate in long distance events, touring along coastlines, or exploring bays and inlets.

The appeal about standup paddle surfing is that no previous experience is required, and you do not have to be an athlete to give this a try.  SUP is much less demanding than regular surfing. Therefore it appeals to all ages, young and old. This makes it a great activity that families can share and explore together.

Once you have your balance, this is a very pleasant way to tour Saskatchewan’s lakes and rivers. Just cruise and relax, or pick up the pace for an isometric workout for your core muscles. Standup paddle surfing is a great way to get fit without having to working out.  SUP a way of exercising while having fun. When you are on the board the constant motion engages hundreds of small muscles from the soles of your feet into your legs and core midsection. They all come alive through the process of balancing an stabilization. Zero impact and zero impact on knees and ankle the joints. Paddling involves the shoulders, arms, chest and back. Go at your own pace, rest whenever you like, slow or fast, it’s entirely up to you. Most students will be fully satisfied (and exhausted) after their SUP session. We supply all the beginner equipment, and a variety of sizes to accommodate different people sizes. Bigger folks will need more floatation (please let us know if you are over 220lbs). Advanced sup-surfers can rent from a wide selection of differing board sizes and types.

Group Sessions

Group Sessions can be booked using the convent explore online booking system. Every standup session begins with a brief land lesson to discuss technique, safety and theory, we practice some of the skills you will need later in the water.  We begin the water part of the lesson close to shore on the flat water. We cover topics of surf sense, board handling, and our float plan. In the near shore area we practice board handling steering and power strokes until you get comfortable with the basics, balance and steering. After the basics have been covered we move out a little further to explore our ride area and interact with open waters. Each Standup Group class is small and personal and has people of a similar skill level. Each individual student receives plenty of attention from Explore instructors. We teach at each individual's pace, slow and steady, or as fast as you can assimilate the information. There is much to learn, and we can cover beginners basics or more advanced skills for those students with previous experience.

Instruction

Every level of standup student can be taught in our private or group lessons. We give you your very own instructor/guide for the duration. Bring your own board or use our gear. Private sessions are best when learning any of the specialized skills, or when going on SUPfaris to other locations, down-winders.  Explore other options such as: Semi-Solo lessons which are available for couples or a friend. Let us know what you want and we can tailor the lesson towards you or your group. Explore offers Small Group sessions 3-5 students or Party Paddles for groups as large as 18.

Private or Group Lessons

All lessons are by appointment only as we need to accommodate the weather and wind. All lessons must be pre-booked. No walkup lessons are allowed. Lessons must be pre-paid at time of booking. Credit Card payments accepted. MC, Visa or Paypal. Gift certificates are available for purchase. Minimum age for adult group classes is 11years old. Children must be accompanied by their legal guardian. Children's lessons available for kids 9years and up. All students must be able to swim. Life jackets available for all students. Please come to your  lessons rested, fuelled and energized.  Be ready for a great new water sports experience.

BEGINNER 

Stand Up Paddling is a lot of fun. Learn about safety, etiquette, and the core techniques. Start out in the flat water, get your balance and off you go. Groups are small and personal. Or you can have a private or semi-private lesson. Customized lessons allow you to choose the start times, and lesson length. Some fitter people may want a longer session, no problem.

SUP in the waves and wind, start small and get some longer rides. At this level we are working on timing and turning. The wave does all the work, if you know how to find the sweet spot. We have multi day classes that can span you whole vacation, or be your regular weekend activity. With some practice you will be catching on before you know it. We provide all the equipment.

Advanced SUP sessions designed for a full body workout/boot camp. These “Power Paddles” are strictly by appointment. All advanced SUP lessons taught in a private or semi private atmosphere. Weather conditions vary. Call ahead and we can schedule according to the best conditions.

Minimum age for adult group classes is 11years old. Children must be accompanied by their legal guardian.  Children's lessons available for kids 9years and up. Please make sure to fill out  the explore info sheet and let us know if you have any medical condition or physical/mental disabilities that may be a concern during a water activity.

For more information about our school policies and cancellation policy click here.