The explosion of inland racing across the United States has every paddler looking for an edge, whether via equipment, technique, training regimen, or energy sources.  Here, Standup Paddle Magazine gives you inside tips from some of America's top paddler's.

Lake Paddling
IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LAKES, OR ARE THEY ALL THE SIMILAR?

Jim Terrell
Lake paddling is a little less lively than the ocean, which allows for narrower boards.  Bigger lakes can be quite lively, however.  I enjoy lake and river paddling: that's what I grew up on in Ohio.

Chuck Patterson
Lake paddling is a lot smoother. But when it gets windy, the chop can get steep and quick, and the water is less buoyant, making your board float a little deeper in the water.

SAFETY: KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Dave Kalama
The first thing I show someone is how to lie down and paddle prone with the paddle under your chest to escape or avoid danger. A lot of people forget that they can get down on their stomachs or knees to manage a situation better.  Then I'll have them paddle into the wind, so they can appreciate how much the wind affects you.  One thing I learned from Brian Keaulana is to identify hazards and manage risks.  If something does happen, you need to be able to deal with it.  Bottom line: Be aware and be careful.

Todd Bradley
Safety first - wear a leash! If there is wind on the water and you become separated from your board, it can be tragic.  I have seen even the best paddlers lose their boards and not be able to retrieve them in strong winds.  If you're by yourself tell someone your game plan.  Set a time to check in, so that in the event of a problem, your contact isn't wondering where you are, especially in the dark.  Remember, it's always easier to be found in daylight.  don't paddle into your worst nightmare.

Mark Raaphorst
My rule is really simple: Go with a buddy.  Never underestimate local knowledge, and always ask about an area unfamiliar to you.  Finally, never count on somebody else to rescue you.  Be aware and be ready.

Strategy, Techniques, Pacing & Strokes
WHAT'S YOUR STROKE TECHNIQUE IN FLAT WATER? WHAT DO YOU USE?

Jim Terrell
My video, Quick Blade: How To SUP, explains a lot.  You can find it on our website (quickblade.com) and You Tube.  I believe in moving the board past the paddle with the larger, stronger muscles.  Don't pull the paddle through the water; you won't go as far per stroke.  Most important is planting the blade before pulling on it.  Exit at your feet.  My race pace and hard training pace is about a 10-minute mile (6-6.5 miles an hour), depending on the wind and currents.  My stroke rate ranges from 44 to 50 strokes per minute.

Thomas Shahinian
When racing, I tend to jump off the line hard for clean water, avoiding any snags with fellow competitors.

Chuck Patterson
Depending on conditions, I like to paddle with a quick stroke pace, where the stroke ends at your feet.

Dave Kalama
I like the Tahitian stroke because it is lighter and places less strain on your muscles and joints… it's easier on the lower back, because you keep your back more upright.  It's more about rate and technique than brute strength, so it also doesn't create as much lactic acid.  You can accelerate quicker, too, when you're trying to catch a swell.  I don't use it 100% of the time, though.  Going back and forth between the Tahitian and Hawaiian (longer, deeper stroke) helps to minimize fatigue.

To read this article in it's entirety(it will include Hydration & Fueling, Equipment, Course Adjustments & Training) pick up an issue of Standup Paddle Magazine V1N3 Paddle Across America. Requests can be made at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it