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Three people carrying stand-up paddleboards on their backs.
Location: Lower Nith-River, Paris, Ontario. Photo credit: Tyler Backus

River 1 SUP Instructor

Discipline: Stand Up Paddleboard Stream: Instructor Development

This award provides a national certification in the instruction and administration of the River 1 SUP Program. This award may be achieved through a course or apprenticeship. Successful candidates receive the River 1 SUP Instructor award.


The River 1 SUP Instructor is certified to:

  • conduct the following Paddle Canada SUP skills courses and to certify paddlers at these levels: Basic, Advanced Flatwater, River 1,
  • assist on the following Paddle Canada SUP skills courses, with prerequisite skills: River 2, Surf 1, Touring 1,
  • apprentice on the following Paddle Canada SUP skills courses, with prerequisite skills: River 2, Surf 1, Touring 1, and
  • teach SUP on Class I moving water.
Find a School  Search for a Stand Up Paddleboard Course  Find a Stand Up Paddleboard Instructor
Course Prerequisites
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Current Paddle Canada membership.
  • Certification
    • Paddle Canada River 2 SUP skills certification, or equivalent skills and knowledge.
    • Paddle Canada Advanced Flatwater SUP Instructor certification.
  • Experience
    • Experience beyond that of the River 1 SUP skills course.
  • Recommended
    • Appropriate swift-water rescue training.

How to Register for an Instructor Course

  1. Contact the course director/organization and register with them first.
  2. Register yourself as an instructor candidate member with Paddle Canada by following these steps:
    • Are you existing Paddle Canada member or a past skill course student? Login to your account and follow the instructor candidate link there.
    • Are you brand new to Paddle Canada? Proceed to the Instructor Candidate membership form.