Because there’s more to SUP than just standing and paddling.
If you’ve been cruising across your local lake all summer and feel like you’ve mastered the basics of stand-up paddle boarding, you might be wondering — what’s next?
Good news: there’s a whole world of advanced SUP skills that can elevate your experience from casual paddler to confident water adventurer. And here in Canada, with our stunning mix of freshwater lakes, ocean coastlines, and winding rivers, there’s no shortage of places to push your boundaries.
Here are 7 ways to sharpen your technique, build your confidence, and take your paddle boarding game to the next level.
1. Master the Pivot Turn
The pivot turn (also known as a step-back turn) is a hallmark of more experienced paddlers. It allows you to turn quickly and efficiently by stepping one foot back on the board, lifting the nose, and using a strong sweep stroke.
Why it matters:
It’s a game-changer for maneuvering in tight spots, racing, or navigating wind and current.
Canadian challenge: Try it in a calm bay on Lake Ontario or a quiet morning on Lac Tremblant.
2. Improve Your Stroke Efficiency
To truly level up, it’s time to focus on technique. Advanced paddlers use core engagement, proper blade angle, and full-body rhythm to paddle longer and faster with less fatigue.
Try this:
Film yourself paddling or take a skills clinic — many SUP schools in BC and Ontario offer advanced stroke coaching.
3. Explore Downwinding
Downwinding involves paddling with the wind and catching rolling swells — a thrilling, ocean-influenced way to SUP that challenges your balance and wave reading.
Where to try in Canada:
- Howe Sound, BC (on a windy day)
- Lake Superior on a strong westerly
- Halifax Harbour (with safety precautions)
Note: This is one of the more technical advanced SUP skills and should only be attempted with proper safety gear and experience.
4. Take on SUP Yoga or Fitness
Once you’re comfortable on your board, adding movement (like yoga or strength workouts) helps you develop next-level balance and core control.
Top spots in Canada:
- Morning flows on the Rideau Canal
- Floating fitness in Muskoka
5. Learn to Paddle in Different Water Conditions
Flatwater paddling is just the beginning. Try SUP surfing in Tofino, river paddling in Alberta, or choppy lake conditions on the Prairies to expand your comfort zone.
Why it’s worth it:
Developing the ability to read and respond to various water environments is a crucial part of building advanced SUP skills.
6. Get Comfortable with Self-Rescue
Falling off your board isn’t a failure — but not knowing how to recover safely can be. Learn different remounting techniques, how to reattach your leash, and how to help someone else in the water.
Practice Tip:
Do drills in warm, shallow water until it becomes second nature.
7. Train for a SUP Race or Expedition
Nothing sharpens your skills like a goal. Whether it’s a local SUP race in Ontario or a multi-day expedition through BC’s Broken Group Islands, having an objective pushes you to refine every aspect of your paddling — from endurance to technique to navigation.
Need a challenge?
Check out the “Sea to Sky SUP Series” or consider planning a paddle-camping trip in Algonquin Park.
Leveling up your SUP game isn’t just about getting faster or going farther — it’s about deepening your connection with the water, improving your technique, and expanding what you thought was possible.
By focusing on advanced SUP skills, you’ll open up new paddling adventures across Canada — from ocean swells and scenic rivers to fitness routines and race courses.
