Because Stand up Paddle is such a new sport and growing like wildfire, there are many new faces to the scene each and every day. While this is completely fantastic and very exciting, it does open the door to many rookie mistakes.

Ever dreamt about becoming a stand up paddleboard instructor? Well, here is your chance to get certified and see the beautiful Silver Coast of Portugal in the process. Read more for details.

Mountaineers Books offers Rob Casey's instructional book "Stand Up Paddling: Flatwater to Surf and Rivers". Check out the free sample and look for a book giveaway on the SUP Connect Facebook page.

Ivan van Vuuren shares some of his stand up paddle expertise with SUP Connect. Find out if the length of your SUP paddle really does matter. Hint: the answer isn't no.