On our FB members forum this week, member Ivan Storck asked what other programs are available to boost SUP instructor skills.

Following up on Ivan's question, here's a short list of additional programs to boost your guide and instructor skills. Find more programs and ideas on the member Resources page on our site.

Having solid business and people skills as well as working knowledge of First Aid / CPR, guiding trips, risk management (making smart decisions) and rescue skills all help in becoming successful.

For those in business it's important to have a grip on SEO, marketing, PR, pricing, event management, good environmental practices, curriculum development and bookkeeping and accounting. I'll cover each of the above in future newsletters and often post articles on each on the member FB forum.

Waist worn C02 lifejackets are popular especially among racers. Most I've spoken to have never actually pulled the tab and have tried to put one on in the water. There's even an assumption among a few that they'll never need it.  

Given half of the SUP fatalities in the US are from not wearing a PFD, it's good practice to learn how to operate the gear you use. For a C02 PFD - buy a second cartridge and fire it off from your waist in shallow water. Challenge yourself and do it without your leash. Learn how to put the bladder over your head then swim 10'-15' to your board and try to climb on. Tips for Putting on a C02 PFD

In the photo, PSUPA member Alex Vaughan struggled to get on with the inflated Onyx bladder on his chest. Kicking his feet brought his body to the surface vs pulling up with just his arms. Do the same with your vest PFD as well! There's slim vest PFDs on the market if yours is bulky and makes it difficult to swim with or climb on.  RC

With great SEO (Search engine optimization) your customers can find you easier online.

Ahrefs is a one of many services out there that provide weekly tips for helping you improve your SEO. Neil Patel is another source of great info.

In this link, Ahrefs has compiled a list of 29 Free SEO tools to help you improve being found.

Read More

Find a ''voyage to tranquility,'' with SUP Marble.
Jaime Fiske was certified for Flat Water 1 by Shaine Ebrahimi and Mary Sundblom from Shaboomee in Colorado.

Jaime is passionate about transferring her knowledge of Stand Up Paddle Boarding to anyone who wants to get out on the water to experience the tranquility SUPing can provide.

SUP Marble also hosts summer beach / lake clean-ups and has a great list of local Colorado places to paddle as well as how-to tips on the website.