Become an ASI SUP Instructor | Level 1 Certification
ASI SUP Instructor Training | Level 1 Certification
Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is one of the fastest growing water sports in the world — and becoming an ASI certified SUP Instructor is the best way to turn your passion into a professional career.
This page explains everything you need to know about ASI SUP Instructor training, including entry requirements, course structure, certification pathways, and where you can work.
What Is the ASI SUP Instructor Certification?
The ASI SUP Instructor Certification qualifies you to safely teach beginner stand up paddleboarding andconduct short SUP tours in inland/enclosed flatwater environments. It prepares you to work professionally as a SUP instructor, with training focused on:
Safe and effective SUP lesson and SUP tours delivery
Paddle technique and stroke correction
Board control and manoeuvring
Water safety and risk management
Group management and communication
Professional coaching standards
This is the entry level qualification in the ASI SUP coaching pathway and is recognised by SUP schools and outdoor operators worldwide.
Read About Course Requirements and Study Options
Who This Course Is For
The ASI SUP Instructor course is ideal for:
Paddlers wanting to work as a SUP instructor
Outdoor educators and water sports professionals
Fitness instructors adding SUP to their skillset
Travellers seeking a globally recognised SUP coaching qualification
Anyone wanting to teach SUP safely and professionally
Entry Requirements
To enrol in the ASI SUP Instructor course, you must meet:
Minimum age: 16 years
SUP experience: 100+ hours of paddling
SUP knowledge and skills: able to paddle with confidence, correct technique and safety equivalent to ASI SUP Wise Enclosed Flat Water level.
Paddle stroke ability: moderate level: 40 strokes /minute.
SUP Wise Intensiv certificate: ASI’s essential SUP safety and knowledge course. This is a required prerequisite, but it can be completed at the same time as your Level 1 SUP Instructor training
Note: for SUP Wise Enclosed Flat Water, you only need to state on enrolment form you have these knowledge & skills).
Course Structure
1. Theory Training
Delivered online or in person, covering:
SUP safety and hazard identification
Equipment selection and setup
Beginner SUP coaching methods
Lesson planning and communication
Risk management and duty of care
2. Practical Training
Hands on coaching practice where you demonstrate:
Safe group management on the water
Effective beginner instruction
Paddle technique demonstrations
Correct feedback and coaching cues
Ability to run a full beginner SUP lesson or tour
3. Supervised Coaching Hours
You must complete 10 hours supervised coaching hours to gain real world experience under an accredited SUP instructor.
4. Submit Required Certificates
Before accreditation is issued, you must provide:
Current ASI SUP Water Rescue certificate or a Surf Rescue certificate
Current First Aid certificate
These ensure you meet ASI’s safety and rescue standards.
5. Assessment & Accreditation
Once all components are complete, you submit your assessments for review.
Successful candidates receive their ASI SUP Instructor Certification, allowing you to teach paddlers independently.
Where You Can Work
With your ASI SUP Instructor qualification, you can work as a SUP instructor:
At SUP schools and outdoor centres
In tourism and adventure sport programs
At resorts, camps, and wellness retreats
As a freelance SUP coach
Running SUP fitness, SUP yoga, or guided paddles (with additional modules)
Apply to become an ASI Accredited SUP School, allowing you to operate your own professional SUP business under ASI’s global standards.
ASI qualifications are internationally recognised, giving you the freedom to work and travel.
Progression Pathways
After your initial SUP Instructor certification, you can continue your SUP coaching development with:
ASI SUP Technical Coach (Enclosed Flat Water)
ASI SUP Instructor (Exposed Waters) – Coastal
SUP Fitness, SUP Yoga, and SUP Pilates
Why Choose ASI?
Globally recognised SUP coaching qualifications
Leader in SUP education, having created the first comprehensive standards back in 2008.
Industry leading safety and coaching standards
Flexible online and in person training
Clear progression pathways
Trusted by SUP schools worldwide
READ: 10 Reasons to Become an ASI Instructor
