To paddle well you will need to understand the 5 sections to SUP strokes.
1, Reach
Part 1 is reach.
Literally, reach forward, in line with the side of your board, as far as is comfortable.
Bend forward, keeping your back straight and twist your shoulders slightly to drop the paddle blade into the water.
2, Catch
The Catch is when your paddle enters the water.
The blade of the paddle should be square to the board, and enter the water with no splashing or water displacement, it will set you up to pull your blade efficiently through the water.
3, Power
Power is the section that has most effect on speed. Perfecting a good stroke technique in the power section will move your board at a faster pace and glide you through the water with ease.
Your lower arm needs to be kept straight and the paddle shaft vertical. A proper stroke technique requires you to pull your body towards the blade rather than pulling the paddle blade towards you.
Once the blade has reached your feet, remove it from the water and repeat the process.
4, Release
The blade will exit the water after you’ve completed your stroke. Lifting the paddle out of the water you will extend your knees to a standing position.
5, Recovery
The fifth section is recovery, this is the transition period between your strokes.
Back to part 1. rinse and repeat.