Do you need a licence to paddleboard in the UK?
Anyone can get a licence, but it’s something you should probably buy if you paddle on inland waterways in England and Wales. An On The Water individual licence costs £60 for the year when you purchase through Paddle UK and covers around 4,500km of waterways. For renewing members the cost is £47 per year. Yes, you do need a licence to use a paddleboard on a canal. If you try stand-up paddleboarding with a club, they will arrange the licence for you. If you want to go on your own, have a look at our short term licences. Our 30-day licence can be used on 30 different days throughout the year.If you want to canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard on most rivers and canals in England and Wales, you’ll need a waterways licence. Without one, you risk fines or being asked to leave the water.You can take your paddleboard along canals, rivers and lakes in the UK. Many inland waterways are calm and suited to beginners and those interested in leisurely paddleboarding. If you are a more experienced and confident paddleboarder, the UK has some beautiful coasts too.If you want to canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard on most rivers and canals in England and Wales, you’ll need a waterways licence. Without one, you risk fines or being asked to leave the water.
Do you need a wetsuit for paddleboarding in the UK?
If it’s a cold day with some wind it’s best to wear wetsuit gloves. On my head I wear a woolly or neoprene beanie. Only in extremely cold conditions or when you’re planning a very long paddleboard should you consider wearing a dry suit. If the water is warm, you’ll benefit from lightweight, quick-drying clothing like a t-shirt and shorts made from synthetic materials, or swim shorts with a rash guard. However, in colder conditions, wearing a wetsuit or drysuit (more on this later) will help you keep warm and prevent hypothermia.
Can I take my paddle board anywhere?
You can use a stand-up paddleboard anywhere on our canal and river network, except for certain tunnels and aqueducts. Recreational paddleboarders will burn between 330 and 460 calories per hour while paddling, which is twice what you would burn walking around the neighborhood. SUP is a great addition to fitness routines for people who do high-impact workouts that hurt their joints.Not at all. Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is one of the most beginner-friendly water sports out there. Because it’s a low impact sport, it’s accessible for all ages. With the right board, calm conditions, and a little guidance, most people are up and paddling within their first session.Paddle boarding is an effective and enjoyable way to lose weight and improve your overall fitness. By incorporating structured workouts, interval training, and SUP yoga into your routine, you can burn calories, build muscle, and enhance your cardiovascular health.Versatility: Paddle boards aren’t just for standing. You can kneel, sit cross-legged, lay down, or even stretch out.
When not to paddleboard?
Avoid offshore winds. They will quickly blow your paddleboard far out to sea, which can make it extremely tiring and difficult to paddle back to shore. Avoid launching in windy conditions. You should wear a suitable personal flotation device. Paddle boarding is an effective and enjoyable way to lose weight and improve your overall fitness. By incorporating structured workouts, interval training, and SUP yoga into your routine, you can burn calories, build muscle, and enhance your cardiovascular health.While paddle boarding is not hard, it is a skill to learn, and is one that gets better with time. In just a few simple steps, you will be paddling like a pro in no time.Stand up paddle boarding is an excellent full-body workout, meaning, it works all the muscles in your body – your shoulders, chest, back, core, arms and legs. And while you’re getting fit, you get to be outside, in the sun, enjoying beautiful views and the sounds of nature.Forward Stroke Keep your arms straight and twist from your torso as you paddle. Push down on the paddle grip with your top hand rather than pulling the paddle back with your lower arm. It’s helpful for some people to think of pulling the board past the paddle rather than pulling the paddle through the water.Falling off your paddle board is bound to happen, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler. It’s part of the adventure and can even be a fun part of learning. However, knowing how to fall correctly can help you avoid injuries and make your paddling experience more enjoyable.