Discover Paddleboarding with Paddle Canada: Your Guide for New Learners

If you like watching paddle boards glide gracefully across the water and have been thinking about trying it yourself, then you're in the right place! Paddleboarding is not only a fun and relaxing way to learn about the water, but it's also a great workout that improves balance, strength and coordination. In this blog post, we introduce you to Paddle Canada, an organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the sport of paddling in the country - we really like what they do. We focus on their paddle programs, including booking lessons, the benefits of learning through Paddle Canada and the history of the organization. We also share valuable tips and advice for new paddlers.

Location: Saint-Laurent Park, Quebec. Photo credit: Valerie Turcotte

Paddle Canada: A Brief History

Founded in 1971, Paddle Canada is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting and teaching safe and enjoyable paddling. It was originally founded as the Canadian Recreational Canoe Association (CRCA) but later expanded its scope to include various paddling disciplines, including canoeing, kayaking and, of course, paddling. Paddle Canada's mission is to develop and maintain a network of nationally recognized certification and professional instructors, and has become the leading voice of the paddling community advocating for accessible and sustainable waterways across the country.

Why choose Paddle Canada to learn paddle boarding?

Paddle Canada offers a comprehensive, range of courses designed to help you develop the skills and confidence you need to enjoy paddling safely, you can start with Stand Up Paddleboard Skills Basic and choose what you'd like to learn the most. Their certified teachers are knowledgeable and experienced, ensuring that you receive quality instruction throughout your studies.

Source: Paddle Canada

By choosing Paddle Canada you get:

• Standardized and progressive learning method.
• Access to an extensive network of certified instructors and courses across Canada.
• Focus on safety and preparation to make sure you are well prepared for different conditions and situations.
• A chance to join a vibrant community of paddlers who share your passion for the sport.
• Certification as you go in your login portal.

Source: Paddle Canada

To book a paddle lesson through Paddle Canada, visit their website at www.paddlecanada.com and go to the "Find a Course" page. Choose "Stand Up Paddleboard" as your main sport, enter your location and choose the level of course you want to complete. You will then see a list of courses and instructors available in your area. To book, please contact the instructor directly using the contact details.

How long does it take to learn to paddle board?

Although paddle boarding has a relatively short learning curve compared to other water sports, the time it takes to master the skill can vary depending on factors such as your fitness level, balance and previous experience with similar activities. Usually, after a few lessons with a certified instructor, you will have the basic skills needed to paddle safely and comfortably. As with any sport, practice makes perfect, so the more time you spend in the water, the more confident and skilled you become.

Tips and advice for new paddlers

• Start with a wide, stable board: As a beginner, choose a wider, longer, and thicker board that provides more stability, making it easier to maintain balance and learn proper technique. Give this video a watch for some simple techniques.
• Learn proper paddle technique: hold the paddle with one hand on the shaft and the other hand on the handle. Give this video a watch for good paddle technique.
• Wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD): Safety should always come first, especially when learning a new water sport.
• Know your limits: start in calm flat water and gradually progress to more challenging conditions depending on your abilities.

Featured image: Photo by Nick Linnen on Unsplash

Paddle fall image: Photo by Nicolas Cool on Unsplash

Saint-Laurent Park image: Valerie Turcotte