A board paddling training apparatus for assisting in improving a user's paddling technique and strength. In particular, the board paddling training apparatus includes a buoyant board, such as a board adapted for surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, or other board-related sport that entails paddling, and includes a resistance mechanism that creates drag or resistance against a user's paddle stroke. Some implementations of the resistance mechanism can be adjustable in order to create a variety of resistance against the user's paddle stroke and board movement.