The legs of a stand up paddle boarder

introductory stand up paddleboarding

Introductory Stand Up Paddleboarding

Ever thought people standing up on huge "surfboards" and gliding across the water looked like they’re having fun? They are!

Unlike surfing, stand up paddling doesn’t require waves. And, with easy-to-learn basics and a great core workout, you’ll improve your balance and core muscles; all while having a great time on the safe and calm waters of Shoreline Lake.

For class sessions starting at 10:30am it is recommended that participants be a minimum of 13 years old due to wind conditions which can make paddling difficult for younger kids (Please scroll down for details about the "Paddleboarding for Kids" class, which is at an earlier time and limited to kids only, ages 8-13.). The beginner lesson focuses on helping you learn techniques so you can stand up on the board, and paddle with correct technique. And, once you’ve learned the basics, you are then able to rent a board to continue practicing your new skills.

The lesson is in two parts: The first 30 min is held on land, going over the different parts of the board, and how to get on and stand up. Then, the next hour or so will be spent on the water. While the time may seem to fly by and not seem strenuous, if you’ve never paddled before, chances are you’ll see how good a workout this can be.

You'll learn the following skills:
  • Paddling Skills – Essential Strokes, Turning Techniques
  • Proper Movement – Stance, Balancing, Positioning
  • Falling & Recovering, Equipment Specifics, and more…
Black paddle board paddles stacked up
A man on the lake paddle boarding
A woamn sitting on her paddle board
What to Bring

Students should bring comfortable clothes and/or a swimsuit. No cotton. Sunglasses and hat recommended. Students should also bring a towel and change of clothes, lots of sun protection, a lanyard to secure their glasses around their heads, a reusable water bottle, and shoes or sandals that can be worn in the water (such as water shoes/aqua socks or Keen sandals).

Important: Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your class to check in.

Paddleboarding for Kids

While the regular Introductory Stand Up Paddleboarding class is open to kids ages 13 and up, Shoreline Lake also offers a dedicated "Intro SUP for Kids" course specifically geared towards kids ages 8-13.

Registration in these classes is limited to children only. So, if you would prefer to take a class alongside your kids, please register for the standard Intro SUP class.