Can a 7 year old paddle board?
Kids can paddle on smaller boards than adults, just because they weigh less and need less buoyancy. But that doesn’t mean they can’t paddle on a board that’s also big enough to support an adult. Look for a board on the smaller end of the adult size range. Stand up paddle boarding is considered ‘easy’ because paddlers of all shapes, sizes, and ages can learn enough to start having fun in no time with just a little bit of effort.The features that make a particular paddle board best for beginners are stability, versatility, and ease of use. These needs are most likely to be met with a board that is inflatable, is no more than 5 inches thick, approximately 32”-34” in width, and a generally rounded or gently curved outline akin to a surfboard.Paddle boarding is generally easier to pick up, with good balance being the primary skill needed. Surfing has a steeper learning curve and requires practice paddling while lying down, popping up to your feet, and riding waves.Show them how to get on and off the board, how to use the paddle, and how to maintain balance with both feet on each side of the central handle. Once on the water, start by paddling while sitting or kneeling until they feel comfortable, then encourage them to gradually stand up. Remember, this initiation should be fun!The key to successfully paddle boarding with a baby is proper preparation (as Well as proper safety, but that goes without saying). It’s not just bringing along the right gear, but familiarizing your little one with this new experience.
Is a paddle board good for kids?
With its blend of adventure, balance, and the beauty of nature, paddleboarding offers a unique experience that captivates kids of all ages. In this blog, we’ll explore why kids paddleboarding is a fantastic activity for children and how they can truly revel in the magic of gliding across the water. Kids can paddle on smaller boards than adults, just because they weigh less and need less buoyancy. But that doesn’t mean they can’t paddle on a board that’s also big enough to support an adult. Look for a board on the smaller end of the adult size range.The beauty of stand-up paddleboarding is that anyone of any age or fitness can give it a go.If you’re a beginner in paddle boarding, you’ll want a longer and broader board, between 10 and 12 feet in length and 30 to 32 inches in width. This size will give you better stability, allowing you to balance and handle the board.In fact, paddle boarding can be a great low-impact exercise for people of all ages. As we age, it’s important to stay active and maintain our muscle strength and balance. Paddle boarding can help with both. Plus, it’s a fun and enjoyable way to get some exercise in.Stand up paddleboards are generally faster than kayaks, as they have a longer waterline and can glide more easily through the water. This makes them ideal for exploring open water, such as lakes, rivers, or even the ocean. Kayaks, however, are easier to steer in tight spaces.
How do I choose my first paddle board?
When choosing a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), it’s important to consider the size, shape, and weight capacity of the board to match your needs. For beginners, stability is key. Generally, a longer and wider board offers better balance: Length: A board between 10 to 12 feet is ideal for most adults. Falling into the water and not being efficiently prepared or trained can cause major issues for those taking part in SUP. Weather conditions can also make paddle boarding difficult and could hamper participants being able to return to the board fully.In summary, a SUP and a paddle board refer to the same watercraft used for the sport of stand-up paddleboarding. SUP refers slightly more to the activity, of actually standing, rather than solely the board being used.Only paddle in light winds. Strong wind can make paddleboarding much harder, especially on an inflatable SUP. Winds strength over 10knots/12mph/3Bf) are best avoided. DO NOT paddle if there is a risk of thunder/lightening.Is Paddle Boarding Hard? Paddle boarding is not hard and is considered relatively easy to learn because paddlers can learn enough to have fun in no time with just a little effort. Anyone can learn to handle a SUP board in a short amount of time.
What size paddle board is best for kids?
The best kids’ paddle boards are around eight feet long. This length offers the perfect blend of maneuverability, stability, and performance for most children. There is no set age, but of course common sense should prevail (it’s not a good idea to take a newborn onboard with you). It all depends on you, your child, and your situation. Some kids can take to paddle boarding earlier than others, so it’s something that you’ll have to assess as a parent.A foam board between 8-9 ft. Get 9 feet if you are a heavier/taller person or really want that extra stability, but for many people 8 feet is just fine.SUP Length Short boards (under 10′) are great for surfing and/or kids. These boards almost always have a planing hull. Short boards are more maneuverable than long boards, making them great for surfing waves. Boards designed specifically for kids are typically around 8′ long.Ensure your child feels comfortable on dry and firm ground on the paddle board before taking them anywhere near the water. There is no minimum age for paddle boarding; however, when paddle boarding with toddlers and children less than 5 years old, we recommend having your child sit on your paddle board with you.The best paddle board for kids should be around eight feet long and 28 to 30 inches wide. A light overall weight is important so your child can carry their board to and from the water. Easy grab handles help with this, too.
What age can you start paddle boarding?
Ensure your child feels comfortable on dry and firm ground on the paddle board before taking them anywhere near the water. There is no minimum age for paddle boarding; however, when paddle boarding with toddlers and children less than 5 years old, we recommend having your child sit on your paddle board with you. However, it’s recommended that your child be at least two years old and able to sit up on their own. Be sure they are wearing a properly sized and fitted personal floatation device (PFD) and that you’re paddling in a calm, controlled body of water, without wind, waves, or strong currents.There isn’t a strict paddle board age limit, but introducing children to the activity can be done progressively. Once a child reaches 5 years old and demonstrates confidence in the water, they can attempt to paddle independently on a child-sized board. However, comfort and water skills are the priority.Paddle boarding is a great low-impact workout that burns significant calories. Without doing any special exercises and simply just standing and paddling on the board, you could be burning anywhere from 330 to 460 calories per hour!The answer is yes! Sitting on a paddle board is not only allowed but can be a comfortable and practical way to enjoy your time on the water. Perhaps you want to take a break, enjoy the scenery, have a picnic on your paddle board, or paddle at a more leisurely pace.Planning & Safety is Key: Remember that your children may not be capable of paddling in the same conditions as you are so ere on the side of caution and if you are not sure if it is too windy or the tide is too strong for them then it is safest not to take the risk and stay on dry land.
What to know before buying a paddle board?
A SUP board must work for your size. If the board doesn’t displace the correct amount of water for your weight, you won’t be supported well and the board may feel unstable. Board volume and weight capacity are two factors that affect how stable you will feel and how well the board will travel through the water. No matter how hard you try to stay balanced on your paddle board, you’re going to fall into the water at some point. Even the most experienced paddlers take the plunge from time to time. So, if you’re feeling wobbly, don’t worry about it and remember, SUP is a watersport, so it’s OK to get wet.Paddle boarding is not hard and is considered relatively easy to learn because paddlers can learn enough to have fun in no time with just a little effort. Anyone can learn to handle a SUP board in a short amount of time. Even if you’re not very athletic, you can still figure it out without any trouble.With the appropriate safety gear like a PFD and responsible practices, both kayaking and paddleboarding can be safe. Yet, considering the ease of remounting, the exceptional vantage point, and the full-body engagement, Glide SUP boards claim the title for safer, more versatile aquatic exploration.Balancing on a paddleboard makes use of the muscles and joints in your feet and lower legs. I did say this was a full-body workout. The great balancing act of SUPing fortifies those essential muscles for achieving stability and providing joint support. This is a unique characteristic of this recreational activity.