Chasing the perfect wave isn’t just for stand-up surfers anymore. Bodyboarding is the laid-back version of surfing, offering thrills and spills for beach-goers of all stripes. From Bali to Costa Rica, devotees are ditching their beach towels and embracing the foam.
But how do you graduate from floundering novice to wave-riding wizard? We’ve rounded up the best tips and tricks to take your bodyboarding game to the next level. Grab your fins and get ready to carve.
Choosing the Right Board
Before you hit the waves, select the right bodyboard. Like choosing the perfect pair of shoes, your board should fit you just right. Too big, and you’ll struggle to maneuver; too small, and you’ll sink faster than a stone.
For beginners, opt for a board that reaches from your knees to your chin when standing. As you progress, you might prefer a shorter board for increased maneuverability. The core material matters too—PE (Polyethylene) is durable and great for cooler waters, while PP (Polypropylene) offers more flex and speed in warmer climates.
Don’t forget about shape. A crescent tail provides better control, while a bat tail gives you more speed. And those channels on the bottom? They’re not just for show – they help with tracking and speed.
Mastering the Basics
Now that you’ve got your board, it’s time to catch some waves. But first, let’s nail down the fundamentals.
Paddling Out
Use a freestyle swimming motion, alternating arms. Keep your chest on the board and your legs trailing behind. When a wave approaches, duck dive by pushing the nose of the board down and under the wave, following with your body.
Positioning
Lie on your board with your elbows resting on it, hands gripping the nose. Your body should be centered, with your hips near the tail. This position allows for quick adjustments and efficient paddling.
Catching a Wave
As a wave approaches, start paddling. When you feel the wave lift you, kick hard with your fins and lean forward slightly. As you gain momentum, pull your elbows in and grip the rails (sides) of the board.
Riding the Wave
Once you’re on the wave, steer by leaning your body and applying pressure to either rail. Want to go left? Lean left. Right? You guessed it – lean right.
Advanced Techniques
Ready to level up and take it to the next level? Or perhaps you already know your stuff but want some advanced tips. Try these tricks to impress your fellow beachgoers:
- The Drop-Knee: This classic move involves dropping one knee onto the board while keeping the other foot forward. It offers more control and the ability to perform sharper turns.
- El Rollo: For this aerial move, ride up the face of the wave, then use the lip to launch yourself into a backwards roll. Land back on the wave and ride away smooth as butter.
- 360 Spin: As you’re riding, shift your weight to the inside rail and use your outside arm to initiate the spin. Keep your eyes focused on where you want to end up.
- Barrel Riding: The holy grail of wave riding. When you see a hollow wave forming, position yourself in the pocket – the steepest part of the wave. Lean into the wave and use your inside arm for balance and control.
Reading the Waves
Becoming one with the ocean is key to bodyboarding success. Learn to read the waves and you’ll catch more rides and have more fun.
- Look for A-frame waves: These peaks break both left and right, offering options for riding direction.
- Watch for rips: These strong currents can actually help you paddle out more easily, saving energy for riding.
- Observe the locals: Where are the experienced riders positioning themselves? Follow their lead (but respect the lineup and don’t drop in on others).
Safety First
The ocean demands respect, so keep these safety tips in mind:
Always bodyboard with a buddy. Be aware of your limits and the conditions. Invest in a good pair of fins – they’re essential for propulsion and safety. Learn to recognize rip currents and how to escape them (hint: swim parallel to the shore). Protect yourself from the sun with reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard.
Fitness for Bodyboarding
While bodyboarding is accessible to many, improving your fitness can significantly enhance your performance and enjoyment.
Core strength is crucial for stability and control on the board. Incorporate planks, Russian twists, and leg raises into your routine.
Swimming and breath-holding exercises will improve your paddling power and confidence in the water.
Flexibility, particularly in the back and shoulders, will help with paddling and performing tricks. Yoga can be an excellent complement to your bodyboarding practice.
Looking for a place to stay?
Gear Up
Beyond the board, a few key pieces of equipment can make your bodyboarding experience more enjoyable:
- Fins: Essential for propulsion and control. Look for comfortable, snug-fitting fins that won’t slip off in the surf.
- Wetsuit: Depending on water temperature, a good wetsuit can extend your sessions and keep you comfortable.
- Leash: Keep your board close and avoid potentially dangerous situations (or long swims to shore).
- Wax: Apply to the deck of your board for extra grip.
- Rash Guard: Protects against sunburn and board rash during long sessions.
Bodyboarding Etiquette
Remember, the ocean is for everyone. Follow these unwritten rules to keep the vibes positive:
Don’t drop in on other riders. Take turns and share waves. Respect the locals and learn from them. Help out fellow bodyboarders in need.
Where to Ride
While you can bodyboard just about anywhere there are waves, some spots have achieved legendary status:
While you can bodyboard just about anywhere there are waves, some spots have achieved legendary status. Green Bowl in Bali is one such gem, hidden away at the bottom of a cliff on the Bukit Peninsula. This secluded beach offers consistent, powerful waves that break over a shallow reef, creating perfect barrels for experienced riders.
The journey to Green Bowl is part of the adventure—a steep descent down hundreds of steps, rewarded by crystal-clear waters and a pristine stretch of sand. At low tide, you might spot sea urchins in the exposed rock pools, a reminder of the reef’s proximity.
Green Bowl serves as inspiration for the kind of world-class waves that await as you progress in the sport. Even better, local surf camps, like the one at Rapture Camps offer surfers of all types a way to become one with the board, no matter the type.
The Bodyboarding Lifestyle
Beyond the rush of riding waves, bodyboarding offers a gateway to a lifestyle that’s all about connection—with nature, with fellow riders, and with yourself.
Many bodyboarders speak of the meditative quality of floating in the lineup, waiting for the perfect set. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital world and tune into the rhythm of the ocean.
The bodyboarding community is known for its inclusivity and laid-back attitude. Whether you’re ripping Pipeline or learning at your local beach break, there’s a camaraderie among riders that transcends skill level.
Environmentally, bodyboarders often become stewards of the ocean. As you spend more time in the water, you may find yourself participating in beach cleanups or advocating for ocean conservation.
Surf’s Up: Bodyboarding to Maz
From the rush of catching your first wave to the thrill of nailing a complex aerial maneuver, bodyboarding offers a lifetime of progression and enjoyment. It’s a sport that rewards persistence, creativity, and a willingness to connect with the ocean’s ever-changing moods.
