How to Body Surf
If you want to enjoy the waves, but you don’t want to spend a lot of money on surfboards, a good alternative is to learn how to body surf. Body surfing is simpler, but just as enjoyable as the traditional surfboarding. You have to know the basics, though, before you can do this sport. Here are some tips.
What You’ll Need:
Swim fins
Wetsuit
Companion
Procedure:
Prepare your equipment. Unlike the traditional surfing, you won’t need any expensive equipment to body surf, but if you want to catch large waves that are farther out, you need a good pair of swim fins. Find a pair that are made especially for body boarding. Also, if you want to body surf in colder weather or cooler waters, purchase a wetsuit, too.
body surfing
Learn how to swim. Never body surf if you don’t know how to swim properly.
Find a good body surfing location. Local beaches with small crowds are great, so you won’t accidentally hit any beachgoers. The beach must be relatively shallow, with a gentle grade and must not drop off suddenly. Also, make sure there’s a lifeguard nearby, to help you out in case of emergencies. Always have a friend with you when you’re body surfing, especially if it’s your first time to try it out.
Check the waves. Not all waves are good for body surfing. Look for waves that are one to four feet high, and that crash farther out in the water, not right on the beach. The waves must also break gradually, and not suddenly crash.
Watch and wait for a wave that you can ride. The best time to catch a wave is the moment before it crashes or crests.
Stand so that you’re facing the beach, your back to the wave. Wait until it’s a few feet behind you. Once it is, push off from the bottom, then start kicking your legs.
As you’re lifted by the wave, angle your body so you’re facing downwards and your body’s lower half is rising above the upper half.
While you slide along the wave, make your body straight and long, keeping your legs together and holding your arms outwards straight in front of your head.
Slightly arch your back, and as much as possible, slide mostly on your chest.
If necessary, paddle your legs and arms a bit, so your body will be straight and your position on the wave is maintained.
As the wave starts to break, turn your body away from it, or dive under the water, so it passes over you.
Streamline your whole body and keep riding the wave as long as you want, or until you reach the sand.
Who says you can’t ride the waves without a good surfboard? Just learn how to body surf, and you’ll have a wonderful good time at the beach!