Level 3 SUP Instructor (Downwind)

enrol options

Take your students to another level by providing SUP downwind paddle sessions.

SUP downwinding uses special SUP boards, the ocean swells and wind to help propel you along.  It requires skill and strategy to judge the best peaks and troughs (runners) so you remain on course.

You’ll learn about logistics and organising downwind sessions, equipment, instructional techniques, how to safely manage clients and conduct SUP downwind paddling sessions for distances up to 10 kms (6 miles) at ocean locations.

This intensive 1 day workshop will focus on completing the major components of the course. Some additional homework is also required to complete assessments and gain practical instruction experience.    

Plan, conduct, instruct and safely manage students for stand up paddle downwind sessions, for distances up to 10km (6 miles).

ASI Level 3 SUP Downwind locations are defined as:

  • coastal ocean locations

  • wind behind

  • wind speed 15-20 knots

  • swell size between 2ft to 4ft

  • distances up to 10kms (6 miles)

  • no more than 500 metres (1,640 ft) from shore.  

  • Stand Up Paddle Instructor in the SUP or outdoor recreation industry.
  • Industry job roles that require SUP knowledge (e.g. marketing, sales, retail)

  • Plan and organise logistics for instructing downwind paddling sessions

  • Risks and dangers that affect students

  • Risk management strategies to ensure safety of students

  • Emergency processes and responses

  • Suitable downwind paddling SUP boards, equipment, clothing and hydration

  • Creating lesson plans for instructing downwind paddling sessions

  • Demonstrate and instruct a variety of basic downwind paddling techniques

  • Manage students safely and effectively

Before starting this course, you must:

  • Have completed a minimum of 40 hours downwind paddling.

  • Be able to paddle effectively, safely and with confidence for a distance of 10 km (6 miles) in downwind conditions with swell of 4ft and in 20 knot winds.  

  • English speaking skills.

Pre-requisite Courses

Workshop
An intensive course that focuses on the major components, with the ability to interact with the trainer and the group. 
Duration:  1 day. 

Knowledge and Skills Requirements - at workshop

  1. Complete 10 km downwind SUP paddle, in swell up to 2 - 4ft.

  2. Practice downwind SUP skill and knowledge including: effectively maintaining momentum, catch and ride “bumps”, correct paddling technique, varying stroke rate and length, power up and power down, effectively conserving energy, wipe-out safely at speed, SUP etiquette and rights of way.

Knowledge and Skills Requirements - after workshop

Demonstrate personal downwind skills. Complete 3 downwind paddle sessions of 10 kms (0.6 miles) in winds of 20 knots and swell of 2-4ft.

  • Prepare written logistics report for each session.

  • Video yourself completing some of the downwind paddle session. Submit video for each session to go with your written logistics report.

Practical Hours Experience
Complete 25 hours (a minimum of 5 paddle sessions) assisting in instructing downwind paddling sessions at an ASI approved downwind SUP school owner or with an ASI Trainer or other approved centres. 

Completed after demonstrating competency in downwind skills.
Practical hours requirement can be waived - based on previous SUP instruction experience.  

Other

  • Completed the ASI SUP Wise Downwind Paddle Skills course  (this course can be completed at the same time as attending this instructor course.) 

  • Submit a current ASI Surf Rescue or other surf rescue certificate 

  • Submit a current senior first aid certificate 

  • Identification

  • Working with Children Check: If applicable to your country. 

Acceptable Rescue certificates
Acceptable First Aid certificates

Surf Rescue and First Aid Certificates can be provided before or after workshop or within 12 months of enrolment. 

Time to Complete 
You have 12 months from date of workshop to complete all course requirements.  

Level 3 Stand Up Paddle Instructor (Downwind) Training Manual
Level 3 SUP Downwind Assessment & Competency Record Book
12 months membership

The following equipment and clothing is required to complete the training:

  • Downwind SUP paddle board (minimum 12ft 6") 

  • Paddle

  • Coiled leash 

  • SUP clothing suitable for paddling

  • Hydration system eg. camel back or water bottle

  • Tide watch with GPS

  • Communications device (eg phone)

  • Energy food

  • Personal protection e.g sunscreen 

ASI Level 3 Stand Up Paddle Instructor (Downwind) Certificate
Valid for 12 months

Each year, ASI SUP Instructors renew their ASI SUP Instructor certificates.   
More about renewal requirements

enrol options