Beginners may initially feel a bit stiff on their boards, so using a longer paddle helps ensure the paddle blade is fully submerged in the water.
If you experience lower back pain while paddling, your paddle may be too short. Consider adding 1-2 inches in length and try again.
If the tops of your shoulders are hurting during paddling, your paddle may be too long. Try subtracting 1-2 inches in length and test again.
These recommendations help adjust the paddle length based on individual needs and skill levels, ensuring a better paddleboarding experience while reducing potential discomfort and injuries.