Paddleboard Instructor Certification
Professional Standup Paddle Association (PSUPA)
SurfSUP Adventures is proud to provide SUP Instructor Certifications through the Professional Stand Up Paddle Association (PSUPA). This internationally recognized program is beneficial for independent SUP instructors, summer camp staff, paddlesport business owners, and anyone looking to deepen their standup paddleboarding skillset and group leading abilities. You can find scheduled trainings below or contact Ian at: 724-989-7259 or ian@surfsupadventures.com to inquire about setting up your certification.
Locations
Moraine State Park
Oakmont
Pittsburgh
Johnstown
We come to you! Call to request.
Programs
PSUPA Flatwater 1
PSUPA Fundamentals 1 (single-day)
PSUPA River SUP 1
Camp SUP Basic Skills and Safety
River SUP Certification (whitewater)
Water Safety Course
Who's it for?
SUP Instructors
Paddlesport Business Owners
Girl Scouts / Boy Scout Camps
Summer Camp Staff
Individuals looking to hone skills
Instructor trainer: Ian Smith
Ian Smith is a standup paddleboard athlete, guide, and writer from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His work and videos have appeared in the Standup Journal, SUP the Mag, the American Whitewater Journal, The Paddler, Boarders Mag, and more. In 2011, he founded SurfSUP Adventures based in Pittsburgh. Ian is also an Instructor Trainer for the Professional Standup Paddle Association (PSUPA) with specialties in flatwater, camp staff, and whitewater certifications. In addition to teaching, Ian is a team athlete for ULI Boards, Werner Paddles, and NRS.
Ian is also the founder of First Waves, an organization that uses standup paddling, river surfing, and the art of filmmaking as a catalyst to inspire watershed conservation and mentorship for at-risk youth. In 2016, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh award First Waves as their "Partner of the Year."
To schedule your paddleboard instructor certification, please view upcoming trainings below or contact us using the form to request specific dates!
UPCOMING CERTIFICATION COURSES
Don’t see a certification that works for your schedule? You can contact us to set up your individualized certification any time! Please fill out the form below or contact Ian at: 724-989-7259 at your convenience.
T: 724-989-7259
E: Info@surfsupadventures.com
PSUPA Flatwater Level 1 SUP Instructor Certification
This course is a 2-day SUP Instructor Certification through the Professional Stand Up Paddle Association (PSUPA). This internationally recognized program is beneficial for both SUP instructors, business owners who offer SUP instruction and rentals, or any enthusiasts looking to deepen their skills, knowledge and safety. You will learn the skills needed to teach a 1 to 3-hour SUP class confidently and safely. The curriculum includes the PSUPA Water Safety Course and is adaptable to client's specialized needs. Certification is awarded upon completing the course, passing all tests, and achieving a satisfactory evaluation. The certification is valid for 4-years.
This course will be led by Master Instructor Trainer, Ian Smith, of SurfSUP Adventures and the Watersmith Guild. Located just 45-minutes from Pittsburgh, you will enjoy the beautiful water of Moraine State Park and have access to the world-famous McConnells Mill State Park, incredible restaurants, breweries, and more to ensure an exceptional adventure both during and around your training.
-- Details about the course are listed below --