Paddle better – what every surfer wants. Surely it happens to you sometimes that when you're in the water, some surfers seem to have an engine in their board. Why do they effortlessly paddle distances that are hell for you? From Flysurf, we give you some tips that can help you paddle better.
Follow these tips to paddle better
1. – When paddling, the nose of your board should be a few centimeters out of the water. If the nose is more than approximately 6 centimeters (4 fingers) out of the water, it means your body is too far back on the board. Conversely, if the nose is less than that distance or submerged, your body is too far forward. We don't want either of these situations to occur as you will lose power in your paddle stroke.
2.- The stringer is the center of the board. Always position yourself on the board with the stringer along the center of your chest and the rest of your body.
3.- KEEP YOUR LEGS AND KNEES TOGETHER: You can spot a novice from a mile away just by the way they paddle with their feet apart. Don't make the same mistake, it only slows you down.
4.- Lift your head and neck when paddling. This will help you know where you're going and, most importantly, put your muscles in the optimal position to generate the most force and power in your paddle stroke. At first, this position is very tiring as your muscles are not used to it, but it will slowly get easier.
5.- Take slow, even, and alternating strokes. Reaching the tip of your board and coming down in an arc until your hand exits very close to your legs. Always with your fingers together.
6.- If you want to change direction, simply lean slightly to the side of the board where you want to go.
7.- Kicking with your legs can help catch a wave. But rely much more on your arms and your posture.
8.- When you are trying to catch one of those difficult waves. Move a little forward on your board, accelerate your paddling (with fingers together) and place your chin on the board and most importantly: Don't give up.
9.- When you feel like you are paddling on the wall of the wave and your board is moving with its momentum, it's time to stand up. Never before, if you do, there is a high chance of losing the wave.
10.- If you see a small wave breaking on the beach, go for it. Even if you don't catch any, you'll be practicing and training your brain to become a better surfer!
We hope these small tips can help you paddle better and gradually reach the surfing level you are looking for.
If you need more tips, here are a few more:
Surf Tips for Beginners: 13 Tips for Your First Year
SURF TIPS TO PROGRESS ARE YOU ALWAYS SURFING IN THE FOAM?
See you in the water!
Flysurf Team
