Everybody surfs to get waves. Some of us like to get more waves (this sport gravitates people with addictive personalities?! Maybe!). Follow these few tips which help us make the most of each of our sessions.
- Pick the right board for the days conditions. (This is an obvious one, and why it's #1.) Equipment can be the deciding factor in having a fun session and getting more waves.
- Position your body on the right spot on the board when paddling. Too far back and you won't be going anywhere, but too far forward and you will keep dipping (or pearling) the nose down into the water. It's crucial to have a good balance, not only left to right, but from the front and rear of the board. Try and keep the nose just slightly out of the water.
- Long Strokes while paddling will give you more lift from the nose of your board as well as more speed on the takeoff. PRO TIP: when paddling put your hands just BELOW the rails of the board. Crazy we know, but brings your power more centerline to the body, aiding in increased paddling power, but greater paddling efficiency.
- Wave position is also obviously very important. You want to paddle into a wave where it has enough power to pick you up, without breaking on your head. Unless you have a glutton for punishment, or are an absolute hellman, in which case you probably don't need this blog post!
- Angle when paddling into a wave. If you paddle straight on you might not make the bottom turn, and the wave will outrun you. Instead paddle at a 45 degree angle toward the shore (sometimes more depending on how deep you are or how fast the section is lining up to be.)
Have any other tips? Please share them in the comments section!