How to Get Back on a Paddle Board After Falling

One of the hardest things to do as a novice paddle is to get on top of a paddleboard. The waving waters, wind moving from all directions, the unstable board; all these factors make it even harder for you to get onto the board and avoid falling off again.

Here is a guide on what you can do to quickly mount and stand on a paddleboard any time you plunge onto the water and how to fall off safely either as you learn for the first time or take a refresher course.

Contents show

Steps to get on a Paddle Board After Falling

Falling is inevitable. One way or another you will lose your stability and before you know it you’re in the water wadding around. For some, this is a frightening moment because you’re unsure of what to do. If you find yourself in such a situation, here’s a guide on the next steps you can take.

The moment you feel you’re about to fall, aim your body towards the water as the board, especially if it is the solid type, can hurt you which will make it even more difficult to get back on the board. Avoid falling feet fast especially in shallow waters.
Immediately after the fall, if have no leash, look for the location of both your board and your paddle. Head for the board first.
As a rule of thumb, when you fall in deep water, the first thing is to try to get into a horizontal floating position. Treading is an option but it won’t help in this case. While in the horizontal position, kick behind your body and get yourself to the side of the board. Avoid kicking below the board as it will be almost impossible to get onto the board.

Locate the center of the board, grab the handle at the midsection using your predominant hand and pull yourself onto the board.
Once on the board, assume a sitting or kneeling position. Paddle with your hands to paddle.
After getting your paddle, follow the how-to-stand steps above and keep on having fun…

How to Fall off Paddleboard Safely

Falling is normal for beginners who are learning to balance on the board. Experienced surfers can also fall off especially when paddling in water bodies that are not calm. A windy condition can make the water choppy and rough leading to a wobble and eventually a fall.

There following is how to fall off safely and properly.

When you fall relax, just let go… tensed up muscles can result in injuries especially if you heat an object on your way down.

Resist the temptation to hold onto the board while falling. Ensure you fall away from your board preferably to the sides away from the nose and tail. Paddleboards are hard and falling on them results in injuries.
Fall flat either on your belly or back so as to avoid falling deep down into the water. Do not dive head-first off your board because the water may be shallow and you may end up hitting an object that may be lurking below the surface
Most people would that you hold onto paddle while you fall but it is not really necessary. If you’re a beginner simply let it go and just focus on falling properly.

Once you’re in the water, you’ll want to definitely stay with your board or find it if you had no leash on. The board is more important than the paddle. You can use the board to find the paddle but you cannot use a paddle to find the board.
When resurfacing, it’s always best to lead with your hand, not with your head. This will allow you to make sure you’re coming up to the surface with a clear path and will prevent you from you hitting or getting hit by your board

Tips to avoid falling

Always paddle with a board leash. With the leash, your board won’t drift away.
Have the right-sized board and spend some to master balancing paddling with the proper technique