Balancing on a SUP is pretty straightforward even though the first time you tried it you probably wondered if it was actually impossible!

Ideally you want a board that is long enough and wide enough to support your weight. Click HERE to browse through boards that will do the job. You ideally want something 30inches wide or wider to stop it being too tippy.

You also want a nice long fin underneath the board to add to its stability.

To start with just let the board float next to you in knee or waist high water and manouver yourself so you are lying flat on the board like a regular prone surfer would.

Congratulations! You are now balancing on your stand up paddle board!

Once you feel comfortable in the knowledge that its not going to sink or suddenly tip you off you can push yourself up and into a kneeling position (sitting back on your heels) somewhere near the middle of the SUP board. If your board has got a carry handle this is a good guide to where the middle is.

Hold the paddle in your hand however is the most comfortable and have a go at paddling around.

Congratulations! You have now worked out how to paddle a stand up paddle board!

When you are comfy with this try kneeling upright rather than sitting back on your heels and paddling the board.

Congratulations you are nearly standing up, and so soon as well!!

When you are feeling like you want to get wet you can put your hands on the board for support, put one leg forward followed by the other and then you can stand up.

To start with you want to have both of your feet parallel with each other much like a skier but standing more upright and in the middle of the board.

Congratulations, you are now probably balancing on the SUP board even if it seems a bit wobbly to start with!

Keep on practicing and soon you will be balancing and paddling your stand up paddleboard out into the lineup!