An experienced packaging and supply chain professional in the greater Chicago area, Joanna Manaves has directed planning and materials management for Peacock Foods since 2002. Outside the office, Joanna Manaves enjoys standup paddleboarding (SUP).
Proper form is critical to a successful SUP outing. To maintain this form, it is helpful to think of your stroke as five sequential stages. It is important to note, however, that these stages should flow naturally in an unbroken fashion.
Beginning with the reach stage, extend the SUP paddle toward the nose of the paddleboard to enter the water a considerable but comfortable distance ahead of you. In the second stage, known as the catch stage, angle the paddle so it breaks the surface of the water smoothly and perpendicularly. With the paddle blade submerged, you are ready to begin the power stage. Allow your body to dip and twist while pulling yourself forward and keeping the paddle angle perpendicular with your board.
Following the initial paddle entry is the release stage, which involves lifting the paddle blade out of the water and squaring your shoulders. The final stage of the SUP stroke, recovery, involves returning to an entirely upright standing position and resting for a moment before initiating another reach and beginning the cycle again.
