Welcome to Learn to Paddle Now
This guide is for new paddlers and will provide you with tips for getting started with Learn to Paddle Now. We ask all brand-new paddlers, or those that are new to Learn to Paddle Now, to attend our Introduction Sessions.
We require all new customers to attend these sessions to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable paddling experience.
From April to October our Introduction sessions run every Thursday at 6:30am and Sunday at 8:00am at The Skiff Club, 237, Spit Road Mosman.
If the class times do not work with your schedule you may wish to consider a Personal Training Introduction Session.
Here is what we cover in our Introduction Sessions:
Safety - Being safe on the water at all times is important. i.e learning how to get in and out of the surf ski.
Surf Ski Set Up - How to set up your ski for your leg length and how to hold your paddle.
Paddle Technique - It is very important from day one to adopt the proper technique. You will learn basic stroke technique and how to steer your surf ski.
Commitment - The first time on the water can be the hardest, don't be disheartened. Our coaches, as well as members, are here to assist and encourage you throughout your paddling journey.
Before you come to our classes
Swimming Ability - As this is a water sport you need to be confident in the water. We do wear lifejackets but a good guide is being able to swim at least 25m confidently.
What to Wear - Sun protection (hat, sunnies, rash shirt, sunscreen), clothes you don't mind getting wet. We wear bare feet in the ski so special shoes are not required. We provide you will all the gear (surf ski, paddle and life jacket) you need.
What to Bring - A water bottle, sun protection / sunscreen and a mindset ready for a fun new challenge.
How do I progress?
Introduction sessions are for those brand new to paddling and those that are new to “Learn to Paddle Now”. Build your confidence, improve your stability in the boat and keep refining your stroke technique. Paddle inside the bay safe from wind and waves.
Beginners classes are for those that feel more stable in the boat. Continue to improve stroke technique and begin to incorporate cardio fitness. Venture outside the bay and into the harbour, learning how to navigate wind, swell and everything the harbour throws at us.
Intermediate classes are where you start to do harder cardio and get your speed up, going outside the harbour and learning how to paddle with some easy runners. (‘Runners’ in paddle-speak means catching waves) past the Grotto in Sydney Harbour.
Elite groups push the limits of skills and fitness and are only suitable for advanced paddlers. Most of our time is spent in the open ocean, providing a playground of runners and challenges that require speed and fitness.