Paddleboard Training
Serene Waters, New Adventures: Try Paddleboarding and develop your skills!
Welcome to Scaling Dam Sailing and Watersports Club, the perfect place for learning and enjoying paddleboarding in a safe, friendly and welcoming environment. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to enhance your skills, our programs and committed team are here to guide you every step of the way. At Scaling Dam, we offer sessions for members and non-members designed to get you comfortably on the water & develop your paddling further. Our club provides a range of paddleboards, along with wetsuits and buoyancy aids, ensuring you have the necessary equipment for a safe and fun experience. Book as a family, with friends, or individually to meet new people and see what it's like to become part of our vibrant paddling community.
Instructors and Coaching team
At Scaling Dam, our instructing and coaching team is made up of volunteer Instructors and Coaches. All our instructors hold PaddleUK Level 3 Sheltered Water Coaching and/or Level 1 or 2 Instructor qualifications through the Academy of Surfing Instructors (ASI), as well as SUP Yoga. This diverse expertise ensures that we can provide experiences that allow you to reach your personal goals and improve your skill level.
Progress with PaddleUK Personal Paddling Awards
To support paddlers' development, we offer PaddleUK Personal Paddling Awards: Paddle Start, Discover, and Explore. These awards are structured to build confidence and skills progressively.
Paddle Start
Join us for the Paddle Start Award which guides you through the basics of paddleboarding in a fun and supportive session. You'll learn essential skills such as safely controlling your board, basic paddling techniques, and understanding the necessary equipment. This award ensures you feel confident, are aware of key water safety information, and are prepared for future paddling adventures. Most of all we aim for you to have FUN!!!
To book an introductory 'Paddle Start' session with Gemma, Al, Hannah or Tracy please click this link
Paddle Discover
The Paddle Discover Award takes you a step further, enhancing your understanding of paddleboarding techniques and safety. This course focuses on developing your decision-making skills and practical abilities, enabling you to have a fun and safe time on the water. You'll gain insights into more advanced paddling skills, different paddling environments & conditions and learn how to plan your sessions more effectively.
To book a 'Paddle Discover' session with Gemma, Al, Hannah or Tracy please click this link
Paddle Explore
For those aiming for independent paddling, the Paddle Explore Award will empower you to make confident choices about your paddling activities. Working closely with our coaches, you'll tailor a program that suits your interests and goals. This award covers advanced skills, safety considerations, and environmental awareness, preparing you to explore various waters more confidently.
To book the 'Paddle Explore' session with Gemma, Al, Hannah or Tracy please click this link
For information on membership prices please click the link here or email us. We'll aim to get back to you within 7-10 working days (please bear in mind we'll be teaching through the summer months!).
2025 Course Fees
Course Title | Duration | Member cost | Non-member cost | Deduction off membership when joining |
Paddle Start | 1.5 hours | £15 | £35 | £20 |
Paddle Discover | 4 hours | £35 | £60 | £25 |
Paddle Explore | 6.5 hours | £50 | £90 | £40 |
Refreshers | 3 hours | £5 | N/A? | N/A |
Instruction vs. Coaching: What's the difference?
The team at Scaling Dam can offer tailored sessions for paddlers to achieve their goals, and are trained in both approaches:
- Instruction: This approach focuses on teaching the fundamental skills necessary for safer participation in watersports. It follows a structured syllabus to share essential techniques, safety awareness, and use of equipment.
- Coaching: A more advanced and personalized method, coaching aims to refine your skills through targeted feedback, performance analysis, and progressive development tailored to individual or small group needs.
Coaching Sessions
To cater to varying needs and ensure progressive skill development, the team provide:
- 1-2-1 Coaching Tailored sessions to address specific skill gaps or goals.
- Small Group Coaching (max 4) Focused development in a collaborative environment.
- Focussed Development Sessions (can include):
- Rescue Techniques Covering essential self and assisted rescue methods.
- Paddle Technique Correct body mechanics in paddle stroke, enhancing efficiency, & power in strokes and preventing injury.
- Body and Balance Improving stability and control for various conditions.
- Turning Technique Advanced methods for precision manoeuvring.
- New Season Refreshers Reintroducing skills after a break and refining technique for the season ahead.
All coaching sessions are provided to members only on a Pay As You Feel basis (min. £5 contribution), reflecting the commitment of the team to affordable and accessible paddler development for all Club members.
For information on membership prices please click the link here or email us. We'll aim to get back to you within 7-10 working days (please bear in mind we'll be teaching through the summer months!).
Paddleboard Yoga
For those looking to combine fitness, relaxation and balance training, we offer SUP Yoga sessions. Practicing yoga on a paddleboard provides a unique challenge, enhancing core strength, stability and mindfullness. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced yogi, our instructor will guide you through a series of poses designed to help you connect with nature while improving flexibility and focus. SUP Yoga is a fantastic way to unwind, engage your muscles in a new way, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of water. The sessions are suitable for all levels and provide a refreshing and gentle approach to yoga practice.
To book sessions with Sarah please follow the link here (to be updated once sessions available)
Come Join Our Paddling Community!
Beyond structured sessions, we have a welcoming, supportive and active Paddlers Group that organizes outings to various locations, including the Esk, Runswick Bay, Sandsend, Skinningrove, the Tees and further afield. New members are always welcome to join and share in the adventure.
Embark on your paddleboarding journey with Scaling Dam Sailing and Watersports Club, where expert guidance, a supportive community, and a passion for paddlesports come together to create a experiences that bring joy, challenge and excitement.
