1 / 2 · Getting on for the first time
2 / 2 · Getting back on from the water
The first moment you stand on a board feels a little strange for everyone. Rather than rushing to stand up, learn the steps for finding your balance. It's also good to practice getting back on after a fall in your first lesson.
01. Check the bottom and your surroundings first
Starboard HQ's picture shows how to get on the board in calm water. The original shows roughly knee-deep water, but on site you also need to check that the fin won't touch the bottom and that there's enough room to fall.
This guide is for standard SUPs. Don't apply the same depth and moves to a board with a foil or to flowing river water. At first, we recommend learning how to get in the water in a lesson, in a way that suits your gear and location.
02. Find your balance on your knees, then one foot at a time
Kneel on either side of the center handle and feel for your balance first. When you're ready, move one foot at a time and stand up. Look ahead, not just at your feet.
The original guides you to keep moving and stay balanced by paddling once you're up. Rather than rushing into strong strokes, link it up following your instructor's guidance. If standing is hard, it's fine to take time getting used to the kneeling position.
03. If you fall in, get back on from the side of the board
Starboard HQ shows two ways to get back on: from the side and from the back. Here we cover getting on from the side of the board using the center handle. Hold the handle, pull your upper body onto the board, then kick to bring your whole body up.
Find stability lying on your front on the board and secure your paddle, then find your balance again on your knees. The original's method from the back depends on board features such as where the handle is, so it isn't used the same way on every board.
- Grab the center handle from beside the board
- Lift your upper body on and kick to bring yourself up
- Lie on your front to steady yourself and secure your paddle
- Return to kneeling and find your balance
04. Practice getting back on before your first ride
Rather than heading out having only learned to stand, practice getting back on while wearing your gear with an instructor. It's also good to learn how to use a leash and buoyancy gear suited to the water at the same time.
Start in a calm practice area with people nearby who can help. If you get flustered or find it hard to get back on, don't keep forcing it; ask for help.
Sources and scope
The illustrations are Starboard HQ's two original infographics on getting on the board and getting back on after a fall, with their drawings and sequence; the explanation is Starboard Korea's commentary. It focuses on getting back on from the side and is based on a standard SUP. It does not replace in-person lessons.
The illustration is Starboard's original artwork; the explanation is Starboard Korea's editorial guide, translated into English here. Sources checked: 2026-09-08.
