Taking Off

Ok, lets imaging you have made it into the lineup. Your next step is to choose a wave and paddle towards it. Once you are in a position to be able to catch it, turn around to face shore and begin to kick hard as the wave starts to push you along.

While you are kicking, it may be necessary to paddle with one arm while the other holds the nose of your board. Choosing which arm does depend on the direction you are travelling. If you are going right, your right hand should be on the nose while your left arm paddles. If you are going left, the reverse applies.

Once you start to feel the wave pushing you down its face, stop paddling and put your paddling arm onto the outside rail about a third of the board length back from the nose. Now slide back slightly and angle your board in the direction you have chosen. If it is a steep drop it may be necessary to pull up on the nose to prevent the board from pearling.

Once you have made it to the bottom you are ready to set up for the bottom turn or trim line.