There is a famous Kayaking quote, that we are all 'in between swims'. In other words, no matter how experienced and proficient we are, it is simply a matter of time before we fall in or capsize. Being confident to get back onto your SUP (or upright, in a Kayak) is an essential skill. It would be foolish to even contemplate going out on a solo trip of whatever length, or indeed it could be argued, on a group trip, without a way back onto your board.

There are many different ways to get back on board, the main ones you will see by watching the video, which is part of a series I have produced for Goosehill SUP. All of them require a big kick from the legs along with some upper body pulling. Think of it as an explosive motion, trying to keep the board flat, while trying to push the board down in order to move your body across the board.

These self rescues take practice and effort, though they will become easier with time. Why not think about giving a self rescue a go at the end of every paddle you undertake? this way, you will be match fit whenever you need it for real. I take this approach every time I go kayaking, I finish the session of with at least one roll. If you have buddies with you on your paddle, then its even better, you can critique each others self rescues and be on hand to help in the case of not managing to get back on.

Struggling to get back on? Get a lesson or spend time on self rescues in a safe, sheltered environment with a buddy to help rescue if required. Smaller people, ladies with larger lady bits, thick 6" boards, big buoyancy aids, these can all add extra dimensions to making the self rescue that bit tougher. Look at practicing being explosive with the kick of the legs and pulling yourself onto the flat board.

 Only making it a bit of the way up? reset from where you are and keep kicking.

Not getting much of your chest onto the board from the first kick? Use the buoyancy aid to help you up, dunk your B.A under the water just before you explode and the buoyancy will help you fire up to the surface. What goes down, must come back up.

If you are on a LESSON with us and would like to spend some more time practicing self rescues, just let us know on the day. If you would like to spend a lesson working on self rescues, then, CONTACT US

You can visit www.goosehillsport.com for more information on the Goosehill range and purchase them online in our SHOP. If you would like to demo a board or for more information, CONTACT US