Ocean Academy SUP Training Club- April 4th, 7th, 11th, 19th, & 21st (Tues, Sat, Sun)

April Ocean Academy SUP Training Club

April training shifts fully into open-ocean paddling and race preparation for the summer season. As we build toward events like the Malibu Downwinder and other summer races, the focus moves beyond harbor skills and into real-world ocean performance.

Ocean Academy’s April SUP Training Club is designed to prepare athletes for dynamic open-ocean environments — including swell, wind, current, and constantly changing water conditions. This month is about building confidence outside the harbor, improving efficiency in movement, and learning how to perform when conditions are less predictable.

We have 5 In-person training sessions this month. With a combination of focused midweek intensity sessions and longer weekend ocean efforts, April training develops the strength, stamina, awareness, and adaptability required for competitive ocean racing.

Training Club Dates – April Edition

Tuesdays:
• April 7th & 21st
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM

Saturdays:
• April 4th & 11th
Time: 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM

Sunday:
• April 19th
Time: 7:45 AM – 9:45 AM*

Location: Baby Beach, Dana Point Harbor, CA
(Field trips to alternate locations possible)

Rain or shine (unless lightning or gale-force winds)

What You’ll Focus On

Each session blends ocean-specific technical themes with structured interval training to build race-day strength, composure, and execution in open water. April will emphasize:

Preparation for summer ocean races (including Malibu Downwinder coming up at the end of April).

• Explosive starts into open water
  • Maintaining speed through swell, bumps, and side chop
  • Open-ocean pacing and energy management
  • Stability and control in dynamic conditions
  • Drafting and positioning in moving water
  • Reading ocean conditions — wind, swell, tide, and surface texture
  • Adapting race plans in real time

The focus is less about tight technical maneuvering and more about maintaining power, balance, and control in true ocean environments.

Beyond the Group Sessions

In addition to the in-person sessions, athletes will receive a structured supplemental training plan including paddling workouts, strength, core, and cardio programming.

These periodized sessions are aligned with spring and early summer ocean race demands and can be completed independently or alongside fellow club members.

Requirements & Recommendations

Racing boards only (12’6” or 14’)
• PFDs & leashes required
• Ability to paddle at least 5 miles in ~90 minutes
• Arrive early — sessions begin promptly
• Open-ocean paddling included in select sessions
• Field trips to alternate locations may be included
• No refunds for inclement weather
• No refunds after April 1, 2026

Participants

Limited to 24 paddlers to ensure high-quality coaching and individualized attention.