Luke Morris

Why Don’t Surfers Like Bodyboarding?

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Surfing and bodyboarding have a well-documented rivalry that’s spanned too long even to remember how it started. Though it’s not as fierce as it used to be, there’s still some animosity occasionally, and nobody can ever say precisely why they feel the way they do. So, why don’t surfers like bodyboarding? Is there even an answer? Some surfers look down on bodyboarding because they see the sport as a less skilled version of surfing. Bodyboarders also add competition in the water since more people are now competing for the perfect waves. Unfortunately, the origins of the rivalry are unclear, so nobody knows how it began. Bodyboarders and surfers want the same thing: the thrill of riding the perfect wave. This makes it strange that surfers often don’t like bodyboarders, but it is an unfortunate fact. Let’s look at the phenomenon more closely to try and find the reasons why. What Is Bodyboarding? Bodyboarding became a commercial sport in 1971, but it was an ancient form of riding waves that, according to most sources, originated with the Polynesian people. It involves riding waves in a prone position on your belly. We know that it dates at least as far back as the 1700s when Captain Cook saw natives of Hawaii riding the waves this way. Today, bodyboarding is an accepted sport that requires a unique board that doesn’t have a ventral fin, so it’s considerably different from a regular surfboard. By all indications, it’s highly possible that bodyboarding (or “Alaia,” as the Polynesian natives called it) predates surfing as we know it today. Why Do Some Surfers Look Down On Bodyboarding? Though nobody can tell for sure, there are two reasons that surfers often quote when asked why they don’t like bodyboarders. The first is a matter of skill. Surfers tend to look at bodyboarding as a low-skill sport compared to surfing. Since bodyboarders don’t stand upright, they don’t have to learn to maintain balance and stand up on a moving board, which makes it seem like an inferior sport. Their second point is that bodyboarders make it more difficult for surfers to ride the perfect wave, and they make the sea more crowded and add competition for the waves. Waves are not like skateboarding tubes – they come and go. Some are great, and others are complete duds. When the beach is crowded with people looking to ride the waves, the perfect ones are harder to find and get to on time. When we consider the perception that surfers see bodyboarding as inferior, it makes sense that they will see the competition as unfair and feel that bodyboarders are “taking up space.” How Are Surfing And Bodyboarding Different? The main difference between surfing and bodyboarding is the position. Surfing requires standing while riding the waves, while bodyboarding is done in a prone position. But this simple difference makes a big difference. First of all, bodyboarding is far more accessible than surfing. While there are children that surf, they are few and tend to be closer to their teenage years. Bodyboarding is accessible to anyone, including very young children. It also means that bodyboards require far less maintenance and attention than surfboards – you don’t have to polish them, for example. They are also much smaller and easier to transport. Becoming a bodyboarder is much easier than a surfer since standing up on a surfboard requires considerable skill. On the other hand, surfing gives you access to much larger waves than bodyboarding, making many consider surfing more fun. Can Bodyboarding Be A Good Way To Learn How To Surf? Depending on your skill level, age, size, and balance, bodyboarding can be the ideal way to progress to surfing. Many surfing schools start newbies off on a bodyboard instead of a surfboard, especially young children. This helps newcomers to learn the basics of riding waves and become familiar with the ocean and the types of waves. Some people find it easiest to just skip straight to surfing, so it will vary from person to person, but bodyboarding is generally considered an excellent starting point. The History Of The Surfing Vs. Bodyboarding Rivalry It’s unclear exactly how the rivalry began, but looking at history (and understanding human nature), we can make some educated guesses. We know that bodyboarding originated before surfing, but when surfing started among the Polynesian people, it was the royalty who would stand upright on their boards. This led to modern surfers referring to surfing as the “sport of kings,” It remained that way for many years because of the amount of skill required to surf, and it was an elite sport that only a select few could do. Then, in the 1970s, a massive influx of people braved the waves on their smaller bodyboards that required less skill. Suddenly, the surfers found their “kingdom” challenged by a commercial hit – bodyboarding. Anyone could do it, and everyone did, which made surfing “cheap” in some people’s eyes. Tom Morey, the man who commercialized bodyboarding, was a surfer himself, but he wanted to bring a type of surfing to the people who couldn’t surf. It’s a noble goal, and it was massively successful, but the “elite” members of the surfing community did not take kindly to this. The good news is that the rivalry is less pronounced than it used to be, and more and more surfers are starting to support bodyboarding and living in peace with bodyboarders, even if they will never touch a bodyboard. Tips For Bodyboarders Who Want To Surf Bodyboarding helps to prepare you for surfing since you learn to read waves and understand the water. However, surfing requires many additional skills that bodyboarding won’t teach you. So, if you’re planning to switch to surfing, here are some tips that can help you do that: It’s all about progression. You might be able to get on a surfboard and find your feet pretty quickly, but that’s not how it usually goes. … Read more

Which Is Harder: Kitesurfing Or Surfing?

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Let’s face it, kitesurfing and controlling a kite and a board simultaneously looks harder than surfing. Although, we all know that appearances can be deceiving. According to sports enthusiasts who have tried both water sports, surfing is harder than kitesurfing. Surfing takes longer to master and demands greater physical strength and energy to paddle to the waves. Surfing is also far more dependent on optimal surfing conditions than kitesurfing. If you want to know what kitesurfing and surfing’s main difference and challenges are, including their optimal wind requirements, safety considerations, advantages, disadvantages, and similarities, and determine which sport is best for you – read on! Exploring The Differences And Challenges Of Both Water Sports Apart from their equipment and varying skill sets, the overriding difference between kitesurfing and surfing is that the latter is far more dependent on optimal surfing conditions. Kite surfers don’t need great waves, and they can enjoy their sport more often, even in rough conditions that are not ideal for surfing, if it’s windy enough. However, kitesurfing is expensive as it requires a kite, bar, seat harness, safety leash, door board, and added extras like water shoes and a wet suit, with added maintenance and replacement costs to factor in. Surfing is far more affordable as you can pick up a budget-friendly board and a leash for under $400, and you’re ready to hit the waves. The Main Differences Whereas both kitesurfing and surfing are both ocean-based water sports, that’s where their similarities end as they are entirely different water sports for the following reasons: Kitesurfing requires wind, while surfing needs waves. Kiteboards tend to be sturdier than surfboards, especially fiberboards. Kitesurfing can be enjoyed on flat water surfaces like lakes, unlike surfing which requires waves. Physical Strength And Endurance Even though kitesurfing may be exhausting until you learn to use the wind to your advantage, it requires far less strength and physical fitness than surfing. Although, that does not mean you won’t get a full-body workout. Surfing is a high-intensity sport as you must paddle to catch waves and return to reach the peak. It requires much more physical strength and energy than kitesurfing. Training There is a consensus that kitesurfing is easier to learn than surfing. However, it does take time to master the art of flying a kite and riding on a board at the same time. Compared with surfing, which takes far more time to learn, kite surfers with the right equipment can stay upright and hit the waves after roughly 12 hours of coaching. And, with a few added practice hours, feel completely at ease. Wind Conditions The ideal surfing conditions for the best, sustained waves are when there is no wind or a very light offshore wind that blows in the direction of the ocean. Although, it should come as no surprise that prime kitesurfing wind conditions are 15-25 knots, with 12 knots being the minimum wind strength. And the wind direction is also crucial in kitesurfing as it should blow from side to shore or from a side to onshore direction. Even though it is true that somewhat offshore winds result in better waves, they can be risky and pull inexperienced surfers into the ocean. Key Safety Considerations According to research, kitesurfing is far riskier than surfing, backed up by the high number of serious accidents yearly. Kitesurfing Safety Considerations Here are a few kitesurfing safety considerations to mitigate all those risks: Check the weather forecast before you go kiting. Maintain your equipment, and don’t use secondhand gear. Familiarize yourself with how your safety gear works and carry a side cutter. Accept that you may lose or damage your kit in an emergency. Surfing Safety Precautions Even though surfing is less risky, here are a few safety precautions to prevent injuries: Add a protective nose guard to an existing board or invest in a new one with a blunt nose and flexible fins. Use a wetsuit to avoid seabed abrasions and provide sun protection and buoyancy. Most importantly, always wear leg ropes, particularly when surfing massive waves. Kitesurfing Vs Surfing: Advantages And Disadvantages Kitesurfing’s most significant advantage is that it offers many more opportunities than surfing, as you don’t have to wait for stellar waves. However, you may need to wait for favorable winds. Additionally, kiteboards are more versatile as you can achieve greater heights and speeds than on a surfboard. However, apart from the cost, kitesurfing’s biggest disadvantage is that the equipment may get damaged, and your beachside prep time will take longer before you can hit the waves. In stark contrast, your surfing beachside setup is far more time and cost-efficient than kitesurfing. But surfing’s most significant downsides are that you will need to wait for the best waves and compete with tuns of other surfers in the process. Are There Any Similarities Between Kitesurfing And Surfing? Contrary to belief, there are some similarities between these two water sports. Most notably, they rely on directional boards to assist airborne riders. Another similarity, compared to traditional wooden boards, is that they both use boards equipped with foam props that allow for a much smoother ride when airborne. Can You Transition From One Sport To The Other? Even though most folks assume that transitioning from surfing to kitesurfing is a breeze, that is not always the case, as they require different skill sets. However, any board sport like surfing that needs board control will be helpful. Learning how to handle a kite and a board simultaneously will take time if you want to master kitesurfing. What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Between Kitesurfing and Surfing? Kitesurfing is an excellent option if you don’t have budget constraints, live near a windy beach, are in relatively good shape, and want a quick learning curve. Although surfing is preferable if your local beach is wind-free … Read more

What Is A Duck Dive In Surfing?

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

You might be new to surfing and unfamiliar with terms like “duck dive” and “turtle roll,” or perhaps you’ve heard about them but never practiced them before. In truth, these two techniques will change how you surf forever and make it much easier to paddle to the lineup! So, what is a duck dive, and should you duck dive or turtle roll? A duck dive is a surfing technique that enables a surfer to dive underneath an oncoming wave and more easily paddle out to a lineup. Duck diving is better for big waves and surfboards with less volume, while turtle rolling works well for smaller waves and surfboards with lower volume. Let’s break down the differences between duck diving and turtle rolling, discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each technique, and go over a step-by-step guide on how to do them. We’ll also cover handy tips for improving these techniques and discuss why they are essential to your surfing toolkit! What Is A Duck Dive In Surfing? A duck dive is a technique that surfers use to safely navigate through oncoming waves when paddling out to the lineup, which is the area where the waves break, and surfers wait for the perfect waves to ride. What Are The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Duck Diving? There are significant advantages to mastering duck diving, but it also comes with its drawbacks. Here are the essential benefits and drawbacks you need to know! Benefits: Duck diving allows you to efficiently navigate through oncoming waves that would other push you back and allows you to keep paddling out to the lineup so you can get into position for the next ride. You’ll conserve a lot of energy by avoiding waves that may push you back toward the shore. Maintaining control of your board is easier, meaning there’s less risk of wipeouts and collisions with other surfers. You avoid long swims back to the beach in case your leash breaks. Drawbacks: Duck diving demands a lot of strength and stamina, especially when it comes to large waves. It takes some practice, especially for new surfers. You must time the oncoming wave perfectly, or you will lose momentum and get pushed back. If you do not duck dive properly, you’ll damage your surfboard. Incorrectly pressing on your board can create pressure dings, delamination, or snap your board. How Do You Duck Dive? While duck diving will take some practice before you master it, here are the steps you need to know: When you see an oncoming wave, increase your paddle speed before you duck dive to ensure you have enough momentum to dive underwater and back out of the wave. Using your hands, push the nose of your board nose-first under the water, with your hands in a push-up position and by your side holding on to the rails. With your hands in a push-up position and holding onto the board’s rails, push the board’s nose under the water. Make sure to push it nose-first to reduce resistance. Slide your foot up and underneath you so that it’s on the tail of your board, and use it to push down – while still pushing down on your board’s nose with your hands. Once you and your board are successfully under the wave, release your legs, slide your hands toward your board’s nose, and perform a frog kick to give you a boost of speed to the surface. Tips For Improving Your Duck Dive Paddle hard to gain enough speed so that you can get deep enough for the water’s cylindrical effect to pull you back up to the surface. If you’re going too slow, your board won’t submerge properly, and it will start to wobble and want to surface because of its natural buoyancy. Duck dive as close to the wave as possible so that you can dive underneath the whitewater rather than getting slammed by the force of the water. You must extend and push your board forward after duck diving; otherwise, it may pull you back. Most Common Mistakes Surfers Make When Duck Diving Don’t stop paddling in fear when you see a wave approaching you; you must keep paddling to gather momentum and push through. When you push down the nose of your board, remember to push down the tail, or your backside will remain stuck in the air, and the wave will push you back. Your average board and leash are both 6 feet, plus your body makes 18 feet. Don’t let go of your board because you have about an 18-foot strike range to hit other surfers, so watch your surroundings. What Is A Turtle Roll In Surfing? A turtle roll is a technique that surfers use to maneuver under an oncoming wave and prevent it from pushing them back. It allows them to reach the lineup – the place where waves form – to catch the perfect wave. What Are The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Turtle Rolling? Turtle rolling can be an effective way to hold onto your position in a lineup and save energy, but this technique has benefits and drawbacks. Benefits: You can more easily navigate through larger waves that are too difficult to duck dive. It helps you to conserve energy preventing you from having to paddle around the wave. You’ll avoid getting pushed back and maintain your position in the lineup. It’s an effective alternative to duck diving if you’re a beginner or find it hard to duck dive. Drawbacks: ou must have good timing and technique to avoid getting caught by the wave and tossed around underwater. It can be challenging especially when the water is turbulent, or the wind is howling. If you don’t do it properly, your board can hit and injure you, or the wave will drag you under. If you let your board go, it can injure other nearby or unaware surfers. It’s less efficient than a duck dive because you don’t go as … Read more

Traveling With Your SUP: You Need To Know

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Are you going somewhere with a stellar SUP location? Taking your stand-up paddleboard with you might feel like a tricky task, but you won’t regret bringing it along if you’re an avid paddler. You’ll be thrilled to know that you are able to bring your SUP anywhere you go! If you want to travel with a SUP, you’ll benefit more from an inflatable one, especially if you’re taking a flight. Flight costs with a regular SUP might be as expensive as a new inflatable one. Inflatable paddleboards are easy to carry in a high-quality SUP backpack. Traveling with an inflatable paddleboard is in your best interest, as a hard SUP might be too large for flights and public transport. Whether flying, traveling by car, or taking public transport, here’s everything you need to know about traveling with your beloved SUP. Flying With An Inflatable SUP The world has an endless supply of stunning SUP spots, and not all of them have a SUP rental shop. Taking your paddleboard along is easier than you think! You’ll want an inflatable SUP, especially if you often travel, because a non-inflatable is much more challenging and will cost you more than an entry-level inflatable. Inflatable paddleboards range from $200 to $1500, but you can easily find a decent one in the $250 to $400 range. Considering that you’ll pay at least $100 one way on a flight and need to spend extra on a rental car for a solid SUP, you’ll thank yourself for purchasing a new one that’s travel friendly. Can You Take Your SUP On A Plane? Yes, you can take your paddleboard on a flight! Inflatable SUPs shrink down enough to make them portable. Many SUP enthusiasts have traveled successfully with their boards – both inflatable and solid, but your best bet, as mentioned, is an inflatable one. You’ll also need a 3-piece paddle to make packing easier. You’ll need to pay extra to transport your paddleboard, but many have been lucky enough to pass through luggage control for free. If your paddleboard and gear fit within your carry-on weight limit, you won’t face too much of a hassle; otherwise, you’ll pay extra. American Airlines has a 70 lbs. weight limit for your gear, while other airlines max out at 100 lbs. Fees range from $50 to $150 per flight. United and U.S Airways are the most expensive airlines to transport your SUP, with fees of $200. If you have an epoxy SUP, you’ll want to ensure your SUP length is no longer than 9.6 feet. Airlines classify SUPs under surfboards if you want to call the airline for information. How To Pack An Inflatable SUP For Air Travel You should purchase an inflatable SUP travel bag for maximum protection and ease of transport. You should choose a bag with heavy-duty zips, padded straps, and grab handles, and if you can find one with wheels, you’re in for a much easier time walking through the airport! You should also find a bag that has extra space so that you can pack in other gear. When you roll up your SUP, you should wrap it around your paddle and pump to protect them from the rough handling that airport luggage goes through. It will be a grand idea if you wrap your bag with an extra layer of protection by using the airport luggage wrapping service. This will ensure your gear sits snug and lessens the chance of damage. Inflating Your SUP After Arriving At Your Destination You’ll need a pump to take with you to your destination; otherwise, it’s a pointless exercise lugging it on the plane! You can unwrap your pump, assemble it, and blow up your SUP at your paddleboarding location. It’s best only to inflate your SUP when you’re using it and then deflate it once you’re done to make transit easier. Tips For Flying With An Inflatable SUP Just in case you’re still a little lost on going airborne with your SUP, these tips should help: Contact your airline to find out their luggage policy, especially if you’re transporting an epoxy SUP. Wrapping your bag with an extra layer helps with additional protection. If you’ve wrapped your bag, write your name and address with a permanent marker in case your travel tags fall off. Wrap your pump hose on the outside of your SUP. Lock your zips or cable ties with a lock so nothing falls out. It would help if you arrived earlier for check-in, as it might take extra time to get your SUP through. Only mention that you’re transporting a SUP if necessary to avoid extra costs; instead, get by with paying for luggage weight. Transporting Your SUP By Car Securing your epoxy paddleboard to your car is essential for your SUP adventures! Not everyone needs to catch a flight to their SUP location, so if you’re using an inflatable paddleboard, you can use a bag, but you won’t need to wrap your pump and paddle in the middle of the board because the transit isn’t rough. Epoxy and already-inflated SUPs need a roof rack if you’re traveling by car because, as you know – they’re huge! If your car doesn’t have a roof rack already, you’ll need to install one, preferably one designed for a SUP. If you’re transporting via a pickup truck, you can transport it in the back, with the deck facing down and the nose supported by the tailgate, with padding underneath. You’ll also need to secure it with ropes. How To Secure Your SUP To Your Car Roof You’ll need a few things to attach your SUP to the roof rack: Crossbar: If you don’t have a SUP rack, you’ll need a bar that runs across the roof for stability. Rack padding: Your racks need padding to prevent damaging your SUP. You can use foam blocks or pool noodles. Cam straps: Cam straps are the most convenient, sturdy type of straps. You’ll need two 12-foot-length straps. Extra rope: … Read more

Traveling with Windsurfing Gear: Tips

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

If you enjoy windsurfing, it is only natural that you will want to explore the world and ensure you always have your kit with you. If you do not want to rent equipment from a local shop in the area, the tips and tricks we mention below may be able to help you ensure your kit is safe and arrives the way it should. When you want to travel with your windsurfing board and equipment, the most important thing to consider is that you will need enough padding to keep your gear in good condition. Other things to consider include air travel regulations and the best ways to pack your sails to ensure minimal damage. If you have spent a while building up your equipment and getting comfortable with everything, you’ll want to keep everything in the best possible condition. The tips below are essential to ensure your gear gets packed safely and that you won’t need to replace anything on your travels. How To Travel With Windsurfing Equipment Though you may have carted your windsurfing gear to the beach a few times, traveling with that gear over long distances can be challenging. With this in mind, we discuss a few significant considerations below and tips and tricks for traveling with all your gear. The best way to transport your gear: Since windsurfing requires quite a lot of equipment, some of which can be pretty big even after folding or dismantling, the best way to haul your gear around is by using a trailer. The trailer will help fit all of your equipment and keep it safe. However, you can use a roof rack for some of your gear if you do not have a trailer. Can you fly with windsurfing gear: Though not all airlines allow you to travel with windsurfing equipment, many do if you are willing to pay the additional fees of around $150 to $200. Some airlines require you to send your windsurfing gear as cargo instead of allowing it on your passenger plane, though this may also cost considerably more. How to pack your sails: In windsurfing, the sails are one of the most critical parts of your gear, so packing them the best way is essential. Before you can pack your sail, you must remove your boom and mast, after which you can roll up your sail relatively tightly. Once your sail is rolled up and secured with straps, you can slide it into the bag sleeve first; for more help, watch this video. Packing your mast and boom: Both your boom and mast have individual bags you can buy to house them and keep them safe while traveling. However, if you want to travel with your gear packed in one bag, a quiver bag may be your best option and can house almost all your equipment. The best windsurfing travel bags: If you want to buy some windsurfing gear bags, Unifiber is one of the best brands to consider and has a variety of bags you can use. However, other brands, like Starboard, sell bags for windsurfing gear, which can hold multiple boards and equipment. Can you rent gear at your destination: Though many of us would prefer to use the equipment we are used to and own, plenty of shops are willing to rent gear if you cannot bring yours. With this in mind, some rental shops you can use may even have equipment better suited to the area where you want to windsurf since they likely know the area. Tips to ensure your equipment arrives safely: The best advice for traveling with windsurfing gear is to buy a bag with enough padding or add some extra to be safe. One of the main reasons why equipment gets damaged during travel is because of bumping or moving around. You can use cloth or cardboard as an easy way to pad your gear and ensure it is extra safe. How To Travel With A Windsurf Board Since your board is arguably the most critical part of your windsurfing gear, discussing how to travel with your board is best to do separately. Below we look at some details you should remember the next time you travel with your windsurfing board. The dimensions of your board (air travel): Though many airlines allow you to travel with windsurfing gear and boards, the dimensions of the boards can determine the cost and whether it qualifies to fly with you or has to get sent separately. The general rule is that a windsurfing board should not be larger than 115 inches by 24 inches to qualify for flights.In addition, your windsurfing board should not weigh more than 70 lbs., but if it weighs less than 50 lbs., you may be able to pass it off as a surfboard and not need to pay the fees. How to pack your board: Though there are ways to fit all of your equipment and your board in the same bag, if you want to use air travel, it may be better to split your things into more bags that weigh less. Using extra board bags to store your boom and other equipment may be helpful since some airlines prefer not to take heavier loads and may require splitting it up.With this in mind, airlines are notoriously bad at keeping fragile things in one piece, so it may be best to wrap your board in a few layers of bubble wrap, cardboard, or other padding materials. Windsurfing board bag materials: There are a few different materials manufacturers use to make windsurfing board bags, some of the most common being nylon and neoprene. With this in mind, the best of these two is usually neoprene which is more durable and gives better overall protection for your board.When you buy a board bag, it is best to look at how much padding it comes with. Some bags have minimal padding, while others have rubber or foam … Read more

Ultimate Guide To Stand-Up Paddleboard Racing

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

If you are looking for the ultimate comprehensive guide to stand-up paddleboarding racing – look no further! This article will cover every aspect of SUP racing, like essential gear and excellent training strategies, finding top local races, and the best way to prepare for challenging long-distance events. The ultimate guide to stand-up paddleboard racing includes info on how to get into SUP racing, a list of races in Florida, Molokai, an introduction to PaddleGuru, and prone paddleboard races in California. Excellent kayak races and long-distance race training programs for a competitive edge. So, if you are interested in your local SUP racing scene, looking for the ultimate guide to improving your stand-up paddleboarding skills with a handy pre-race day checklist for long-distance events, including answers to common questions, and ready to up your game like a pro – read on! How To Get Into SUP Racing A significant difference exists between leisurely and SUP racing gear, mainly because the latter is built for speed. You will also need mandatory safety equipment to participate in all official races. Here’s the lowdown on the gear you will need, including basic training techniques to practice if you are new to the thrilling prospect of stand-up paddleboarding races: Essential SUP Racing Gear Race board: even though you could technically race on a regular paddle board, they are not purposely designed for speed or agility. And they will not give you the competitive edge you need. Thus, if you are shopping for some new racing kit, opt for a lightweight, narrow racing board with a water displacement underside that helps you glide through the water at top speeds. A lightweight paddle: a paddle crafted from a durable carbon fiber shaft is your best option. However, ensure that the paddle’s size works with your stroke style and height for optimal performance. Racing apparel: choose quick-drying clothes that will keep you comfortable on hot race days, like board shorts, leggings, and rash guards. Alternatively, consider a dry or wet suit to keep your body temperature consistent. Other essentials include a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. SUP racing accessories: nice to have items include a GPS watch to track your performance when you are training and on the race day, and dry bags or waterproof containers to protect your stuff. SUP Safety Gear Like with all water sports, safety should always be your top priority, so with that said, you will need the following kit to compete in all SUP races: Mandatory PDF: you will need to wear a personal flotation device at any race, so opt for one designed for paddling and gives you lots of freedom to move. Coiled leash: select a brand that feels comfortable to stay connected to your paddleboard during a fall. The leash should also have a quick-release feature needed if you get entangled. Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tips And Tricks Before we delve into the most effective way to prepare for your first race, it’s essential to practice as much as possible. So, paddle in all types of weather and water conditions (even upstream) or train with heavier paddles to prepare you for all eventualities. Most importantly, devise a comprehensive pre-race workout plan with strength, flexibility, speed, and endurance exercises, with built-in recovery days to avoid potential injuries. But remember to take it easy and not push yourself too hard. The Best SUP Training Techniques Like any sport, your paddling technique is essential, so begin your training sessions by focusing on maintaining a proper, well-balanced stance with your feet placed hip distance apart, toes pointing forward, and softly bent knees. To stay centered on the board, engage your core muscles as they are essential to maintain your balance, move your board, and provide stability and the power needed to up your paddling speed. To maximize your strokes and cover greater distances quickly, keep your arms straight and ensure your paddle is always vertical when it first enters the water. Once you have mastered those basic techniques, you are ready to practice drafting, which involves closely paddling behind another paddler to use their slipstream to your advantage. It’s vital to test this drafting technique with a partner as you must figure out your optimal position and distance from your paddling buddy. Finally, you will need to practice buoy turns which are technically one of the most challenging aspects of any race. To master the fine art of buoy turns like a pro, paddle towards the buoy at a fast speed and then practice shifting your body weight toward the board’s interior rail, followed by a succession of quick short paddle strokes for a controlled and seamless turn. SUP Races Near Me: Find The Best Events The best part about SUP races is that they cater to all ability levels. Due to the sport’s increasing popularity, you are spoilt for choice with fun poker runs and night races, including open and flatwater races that are well organized. Although, if you are starting out, look for PaddleGuru beginner-friendly races on inland lakes, as the water and weather conditions tend to be less volatile. Alternatively, check race notifications at your nearest SUP shop, or ask your trainer and fellow paddlers about upcoming races in your area that cater to your current ability level. However, once you’ve entered, ensure you are adequately prepared, especially if it is your first SUP race and nerves tend to kick in. Make a checklist ahead of time as you will need the following: Paddleboard (including your fins) and the paddle. Safety gear like your Personal Floating Device (PFD) and leash. Snacks, including a water bottle, to keep your energy levels up. A hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Your mobile phone and dry bags. Directions to the race event, including your registration fees (if you did not pay online). Most importantly, arrive early at the race day location to attend the mandatory safety meetings, find out about any obstacles on the course, and meet your fellow competitors. Top SUP Races In … Read more

The World of Dog Surfing: You Need to Know

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

The new world of dog surfing is actually old. Not surprising since we’ve got water rescue dogs, some that even leap out of helicopters. But not all canines take a splash out of loyalty and dedication. Some dogs love water: with four legs and a low center of gravity, it’s relatively easy for them to hang ten. Dog surfing has become increasingly popular since 2006 when the first significant competition was held in California. But dogs have been recorded taking part in surfing since the 1920s. Some famous dog surfing pioneers are Spot, Night Hawk, Rusty, and Max. Surfing isn’t for every pup. Some have a more stereotypical cat attitude when it comes to water. Others might adore getting wet but do not enjoy the sensation of the “ground” shifting under their paws. But for some dogs, surfing is more fun than going for a walk. Thus, we’re taking you back to the canine who started it all and how you can tell if surfing is right for your best friend. Is Dog Surfing Real? Exploring The History And Origins Of This Exciting Sport Dog surfing is real, from dogs hitting the waves solo to sharing with their human. In 2016, The World Dog Surfing Championships debuted in Pacifica, California. But don’t be fooled; while dog surfing as a competitive sport is relatively recent, as a pastime, it’s been around for nearly a century. Sons Of The Surf Films The Dog Spot Surfing In 1926 In 1926, the documentary Sons of the Surf recorded surfers on the Hawaii island of Oahu at Waikiki Beach. It wasn’t the first filmed documentary of Hawaiian surf culture. In 1906, Thomas A. Edison shot “Hawaiian Islands,” displaying surfers using both arms simultaneously to paddle. But a unique surfer was introduced five minutes into the Son of the Surf: a dog named Spot. On The Waves At Waikiki Films Terrier Night Hawk In 1932 But Spot wasn’t the only dog on Oahu Island with the surf bug. Around 1932, a new silent documentary was released called The Waves At Waikiki featuring a terrier named Night Hawk hanging 10 to the delight of his owner Phillip K. Auna. Rusty And Max Take Dog Surfing To The US Mainland Four-pawed surfing gradually made it to the mainland. Legendary surf photographer Doc Ball snapped Jim Baily and his cocker Spaniel Rusty surfing at Hermosa Beach in 1946. The photograph was later featured in Life Magazine. “Movie gal gave him that dog,” Doc told Malcolm Gault-Williams in 1998. The photo made it to Europe, where the English public “were all over me about torturing that little dog.” But Doc disagrees with their assessment, saying the dog would “scratch your ears off trying to get on your board.” But the dog that made it to the big time was Max, a terrier owned by Dave “DC” Chalmers. The duo was featured in films, TV shows, and many surf magazines in the 70s and early 80s. But the pair are best known for their stint in Those Amazing Animals. 2006: Dog Surf Competitions Become A Thing Dog surfing competitions are still relatively new despite dogs participating in the sport since the 1920s. The first big dog surfing competition was held in California in 2006, sponsored by TasteTV. The event was popular and led to the 2009 book The Dog’s Guide To Surfing, now in its 5th Edition. The book legitimized the sport, and more competitions followed. Thus, by 2011, fifty dogs took to the waves at the Loews Coronado Bay Result Dog Competition, and dogs were split into three categories: Small, Medium, and Large. There were also two tandem categories: dog + dog and dog + human. In addition, safety equipment began to be mandated, such as requiring dogs to wear a life jacket or vest. 2016 brought the sport to The World Dog Surfing Championships. Come 2017, mainstream news caught on to the action, and coverage included NPR and Good Morning America. They now have social media accounts, including @worlddogsurfing on IG and Twitter. Alas, the 2017 World’s winner Abbie Girl is no longer with us. But her Instagram account can still be viewed by fans. Do Dogs Enjoy Surfing? Understanding The Science Behind Canine Water Sports Some dogs do enjoy surfing. Dogs, like many domesticated animals, have been bred for various tasks. Some breeds have historically been used to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. Thus, these canine friends take to water much like a duck. Others, not so much. But unlike ducks, dogs don’t instinctively know how to swim, although many seem to figure it out almost instantaneously. However, all dogs use a similar “dog paddle,” according to a study by West Chester University biologist Frank Fish. His research showed that the “swimming gate” resembled that of a trot. In addition, dogs use the same type of “trot” despite the fact that they don’t all have the same walking gait. The gait unused by dogs in swimming brings the legs up close to the body after the forward stroke. The tucking of the leg reduces drag, allowing the “pull” to bring them further than if they used their land gait. Thus, the reason some dogs struggle in water is not due to different doggie paddle styles but due to their proportions. For example, short legs and long bodies will struggle. In addition, dogs with flatter faces have a harder time keeping their nose and eyes clear of water than those with a more classic face, as found on a Golden Retriever or Labrador. Dogs with thick and heavy coats will also have difficulty staying afloat. But your best friend doesn’t have to be built like a champion waterfowl retriever to enjoy surfing. However, they do need to love getting wet. How To Play Dog Surfing: Tips, Tricks, And Best Practices For Keeping Your Pup Safe Before introducing your dog to surfing, you need to ensure your dog enjoys water play. Some dogs simply hate it or, like Chihuahuas, their … Read more

The Best Bodyboarding World Champions

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Since its conception in 1971, the bodyboard has become increasingly popular. Invented by Tom Morey, this revolutionary board has made history in watersports. The first-ever bodyboarding championships were hosted in the late 1970s and are continually held today. But which bodyboarders have dominated this sport, invented new techniques, and earned the title of champion? The best bodyboarding world champions of all time are Mike Stewart, Guilherme Tamega, Jeff Hubbard, Ben Player, and Pierre-Louis Costes. In addition, Dave Hubbard, Jay Reale, and Michael Eppelstun have also won championships and greatly influenced bodyboarding as a sport. There’s been a couple of big names in bodyboarding throughout the years. Those that have made history have not only inspired upcoming stars to get into bodyboarding but have also had an incredible influence on the sport by introducing new techniques and tricks and designing their own bodyboards, which are undeniably better than most other bodyboards on the market. Who Are The Most Successful Bodyboarders In History? A couple of bodyboarders could be considered the most successful bodyboarders in history. These include Mike Stewart, Guilherme Tamega, Jeff Hubbard, Ben Player, and Pierre-Louis Costes. Hawaiian-born Mike Stewart is a pioneer in bodyboarding, has nine world championship titles, and is considered one of the most experienced bodyboarders in the world. Like Mike Stewart, Guilherme Tamega has an equally impressive record. He has won six world titles and was crowned ISA World Bodyboarding Games champion twice. Jeff Hubbard is a three-time IBA World Champion and a four-time IBA Pipeline Pro bodyboarding contest winner. Hubbard is most widely recognized for his tricks like the split leg invert, looped 360 airs, and his bodyboard brand called Hub boards. Ben Player took the world championship in 2005, 2007, and 2013 and finished second overall in the World Bodyboarding Tour. Ben Player has been bodyboarding since the early ’90s, and today, he is involved in many projects, including running the Movement Bodyboarding magazine. Pierre-Louis Costes is the 2011 and 2016 bodyboarding world champion and is recognized as one of the most influential bodyboarders in the world. He is famous for his infectious smile and his trademark backflip. Mike Stewart Mike Stewart is one of the most accomplished bodyboarders in the world. He has gained numerous titles and played a significant role in getting this sport to where it is today. Stewart competed in his first bodyboarding competition in 1982, finishing third. From his first competition, he competed and won various other titles throughout his career. Mike has also designed a range of bodyboards called Science Boards, which have surpassed the original design of Tom Morey’s boogie boards. Why Is Mike Stewart Considered The “King” Of Bodyboarding? Mike Stewart is considered the “King” of bodyboarding due to his number of world championships and his influence in bodyboarding. Mike Stewart is also considered a pioneer in bodyboarding and currently holds more titles than any other bodyboarder in the world. Mike has won the Pipeline Bodysurfing Classic 15 times and has earned the nickname ‘Mister Pipeline.’ Mike Stewart won the Bodysurfing Classic 14 times and was among the first to surf at Teahup’o. He is also the “King” of bodyboarding because he was the first bodyboarder to ever land an air forward at Sunset Beach. Guilherme Tamega Guilherme Tamega is a Brazilian bodyboarding champion. Tamega has won six world championships and won the Shark Island Challenge three times in a row. Tamega is the only person to win the Shark Island Challenge three consecutive times. He has achieved numerous runner-up places throughout his career and has his own line of bodyboards called GT boards. How Did Guilherme Tamega Revolutionize Bodyboarding? Guilherme Tamega started his bodyboarding career in 1985 at just 13 years old. By age 16, his skill, talent, and technical abilities were so impressive that the bodyboarding event organizers in Brazil had to lower the age restrictions for professional bodyboarders to 18, so he could compete. From this point, his career as a bodyboarder took off, and he continued to win numerous titles. Guilherme revolutionized bodyboarding by riding some of the biggest waves, captivating audiences with his fearless attitude, charisma, and ability to become a champion at such a young age. This inspired other young athletes to do the same. He is also among the most popular bodyboarders due to his various tricks. Jeff Hubbard Jeff Hubbard is a bodyboarding champion from Hawaii known for his acrobatic moves on his board. He has been bodyboarding since the 1990s and is one of the most well-known bodyboarders in the world, along with his brother David Hubbard. Jeff is a bodyboarding ambassador, inspiring fans and young athletes by promoting bodyboarding as a sport. He is also a judge in many bodyboarding contests and hosts several tournaments. In addition, Jeff and his brother David founded their own business called Hubboards, which sells bodyboards and surfing apparel. What Are Jeff Hubbard’s Accomplishments In Bodyboarding? Jeff is a five-time IBA Pipeline Pro bodyboarding contest winner and a three-time IBA World Champion. He is also an eleven-time United States National Title Holder and has won numerous other titles between 2009 and 2012. Ben Player Ben Player is an Australian three-time world bodyboarding champion. He has also won the Peer Pole twice and earned the title of two-time bodyboarder of the year. Ben has been bodyboarding for 20 years and grew up being inspired by great bodyboarders like Mike Stewart and Guilherme Tamega. How Did Ben Player Become One Of The Best Bodyboarders In The World? Ben started bodyboarding at ten and fell in love with the sport. He competed in contests, won titles, and became an influencer in the bodyboarding world. Ben runs Movement magazine, a magazine focused on bodyboarding. As a thrill seeker and risk taker Ben took part in a movie called Far North and a documentary called a breaking bull. Far North follows Ben to the north of Europe to face some of the world’s most brutal waves. Breaking Bull covers Ben’s journey to Scotland to be … Read more

Surfing Tricks: How To Take Surfing Next Level

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Surfing tricks are some of the most exciting maneuvers you can perform on a wave to add variety to your surf! They require technical skill, balance, and athleticism and range from simple maneuvers like carving and bottom turns to more advanced tricks like aerials and barrel rides. They open new opportunities that level up your surf to the next exciting level, and it starts with how to perform them! You can take your surf to the next level by learning how to do a carve, bottom turn, cutback, floater, and aerial maneuvers like the backflip, 540 & 720, and barrel riding. They make it easier to navigate the waves, add a thrill to your surf, and are essential for pro surfers to impress the judges. When we first learned the joy of running, it unlocked a new world of opportunities for us. The same principle applies to surfing; knowing how to carve is handy for quickly changing direction, while the bottom turn is the key that makes all the other tricks accessible to you. Let’s look at each maneuver and discuss what they look like, how to do them, common mistakes, and tips to improve them! Carving Carving is one of the most essential and exciting maneuvers in surfing. It gives you the power to change direction quickly and drastically by using the power and speed of the wave. Carving also symbolizes style and skill, showing your ability to control your board and ride on the rails. Carving on a surfboard requires executing a forceful 180-degree turn by progressively exerting pressure on the board with either your toes or heels. Typically, you will need to carve your surfboard on a high-speed wave that offers broad, open sections ahead of you to maximize your surfing experience. Keep in mind carving is different from trimming, which is a more subtle way of changing direction by shifting your weight slightly on the board. Trimming helps adjust your position on the wave and maintain speed, but carving is more radical and expressive. How To: Mastering The Art Of Carving Carving is a fundamental skill in surfing, and with practice, it can be an exciting way to ride the waves. Here are 12 steps to help you perfect your carving technique: Begin by catching a wave at shoulder height on the side, known as the shoulder. To gain momentum, initiate a well-executed bottom turn. Drive your surfboard from the bottom towards the crest of the wave. Put pressure on your heel side (frontside) or toe side (backside) without rotating your shoulders. Sink the rail of the surfboard into the wave face. Apply pressure on your legs and look over your shoulder. Place your leading hand into the water. Boost the rotation of your shoulder axis by putting more pressure on your toes or heels. Lengthen your front leg to increase the power in your back foot. When the nose of the surfboard has completed the turn, release the rail before encountering the whitewater. Flatten out the board and examine the base of the wave. Resume riding with a bottom turn. Tips And Common Mistakes To Consider When Carving Practice carving on both sides (frontside and backside) to develop your balance and coordination. Start with smaller waves and work your way up to bigger ones as you gain confidence and experience. Bend your knees and maintain a low body posture to increase stability and leverage. Use your arms and head to guide your turns and maintain balance. Don’t lean too much on the back foot, or you’ll lose speed and stall. Don’t overextend your front leg, or you’ll lose control and fall off. Don’t shy away from digging deep into the wave and carving hard; it’s better to fall than to play it safe. Bottom Turn The initial turn performed after catching a wave is known as the bottom turn. It’s one of the most critical maneuvers in surfing because it sets up every other move you want to do on the face. A bottom turn involves turning your surfboard at the bottom of the wave, using your rail and your fins to carve an arc on the water. The bottom turn can be either minor or major, depending on how tight and vertical you want to go. A minor bottom turn is used to sweep yourself diagonally to the wave’s face, where you can do maneuvers like top turns, cutbacks, and roundhouses. A minor bottom turn is commonly used on waves with softer shoulders or when you want to maintain speed and flow. A major bottom turn is used to launch yourself vertically to the wave’s lip, where you can do maneuvers like snaps, off-the-lips, airs, and barrels. A major bottom turn is generally used on waves with steeper sections or when you want to attack the wave with power and aggression. Perfecting Your Bottom Turn: 6 Easy Steps The bottom turn is a handy maneuver in surfing that helps you generate speed and set up for more advanced maneuvers. Following these six steps, you can perfect your surfing technique and propel you to the next level. Take off as steep and late as possible to gain maximum speed. Time your bottom turn: delay it as long as possible without losing speed. Keep a low stance: bend your knees to keep your balance. Keep your feet centered over the stringer: your weight must be evenly distributed. Steadily apply pressure on your toes (frontside) or heels (backside), and let the surfboard’s rail find the water’s surface. Once you’ve started climbing up the wave face, pump for speed, stall for tubes, kick out, or prepare for another maneuver. Bottom Turning Like a Pro: Common Mistakes To Avoid on’t go too low off the bottom of a wave, or you’ll lose most of your speed. Avoid racing too far out in front of the section and overlooking your bottom turn marker, making you miss the wave’s best part. If you don’t compress through the bottom turn … Read more

Surfing Mobility Exercises: Surf Performance

May 18, 2023by Luke Morris

Surfing is an addictive sport that is healthy for the body and mind. But the activity comes with a large portion of physical and mental demands, along with a side order of risk. It uses the entire body and requires focus. But as holistic as the sport is, it doesn’t provide everything. Hence the need to incorporate surfing mobility exercises to help reach peak performance and minimize risk. Surfing mobility and strength exercises increase mobility in the hips and spine and improve core strength, protecting your back, shoulders, and neck. They boost stability in key joints, such as hips, knees, and ankles. They can also improve flexibility which enhances your agility and power. Surfing, like gymnastics and ballet, requires the body to be strong and flexible but have stability. If the body isn’t flexible enough, strokes are inefficient, the popup is cumbersome, and the dexterity on the board is lacking. Yet, if the back hyperextends and essential joints wobble, balance is lost, injury risk is raised, and performance suffers. This is why surfing alone will not achieve peak performance. Introduction To Surfing Mobility Training Surfing mobility training incorporates off-the-water exercises that improve strength, flexibility, and stability while reducing injury risk. Exercises can be cross-discipline, using exercises found in yoga, Pilates, and the gym, such as squats. However, most are performed on stable surfaces, as studies have shown that doing so on unstable surfaces can have detrimental results. In short: surfers already have enough unstable surface training by virtue of their sport. They must incorporate on-the-ground exercises and stretches to create a more holistic regime. Benefits Of Surf Mobility Exercises For Surfers The benefit of surf mobility exercises for surfers is better performance while reducing injury risk. For instance, rotation of the shoulders, trunk, and hips is essential for creating powerful, dynamic turns that are fun and wow the crowds. But these maneuvers are not just a matter of power and suppleness. Flexibility combined with power that lacks control can lead to hyperextension injuries in addition to lacking the agility and grace surfers crave. In addition, the body must be able to cushion itself from the forces exerted against it, and there are many thanks to the variables of the sea and the sport. So again, surf mobility exercises enhance a surfer’s performance on the water while making them less likely to be injured. In the end, the better we take care of ourselves, the longer we can enjoy the sport. Top Surfing Mobility Exercises To improve Surf Performance Ready to get started in your new on-the-ground training regime? Here are some top surfing mobility exercises to improve your surf performance. Hip Mobility Exercises Hip strength and mobility are crucial to surfing. They and the pelvis connect the upper body with the lower. If hips are stiff and weak, they impact surfing performance and cause injuries to the back and lower extremity joints, especially in the knees. Many people who think they have bad knees actually have tight hips. However, too many surfers leap into dynamic stretches without establishing the fundamentals. So before you get fancy, start with some basics. 90/90 Hip Stretch The 90/90 hip stretch is the foundation for many advanced surfing mobility exercises for the hips. Sit down on the floor. Extend your right leg in front. Bring your right foot towards your left hip until you have achieved a 90-degree angle. Your knee and outer thigh should remain on the floor and be extended forward. The calf and ankle should align with the bent knee, parallel to your pelvis. Extend your left leg out, in line with the hip. Keeping your thigh straight out from the hip, bend the knee so your left calf and foot point straight back. Both legs should now be at 90-degree angles, making L shapes. Keep your torso upright. Keep your shoulders and pelvis squared. Breathe into the stretch. After holding for 20-60 seconds, change the legs, with left in front and right in the back. Hold again. Watch this Youtube video for how to do the basic 90/90 and begin to increase it into a more intense stretch. Curtsy Lunge Front, back, and side lunges are taught in PE classes around the United States and are excellent for exercising the hips. But the curtsy lunge is only starting to gain the recognition it deserves and should be part of every surfer’s mobility exercise regime. Begin standing, feet shoulder-width apart Step your right foot back like you’re going to curtsy. Thus, your right foot is left of your left foot. Now bend the knee (and pretend you’re in The Game of Thrones). Return feet to side by side. You can now alternate or do all the reps on one side first before switching. As you improve, feel free to add some weight. Do better with visuals? Here’s a YouTube demonstration. Shoulder Mobility Exercises Surfing makes high demands on the shoulders, from paddling out to the all-essential popup. The joint must be strong and supple yet have rock-solid stability, or injury will occur. Here are two stretching and posture exercises to incorporate into your routine. The Sleeper Stretch The sleeper stretch focuses on improving range and rotation by concentrating on the teres minor and infraspinatus muscles. The stretch technically needs no equipment, but you will find it more comfortable with a pillow under your head. Lie on your right side. Bring the right elbow out, in line with your shoulder Bright your right hand up so the arm is now making an L. Take your left arm and press the right hand toward the ground Hold where you meet resistance for 30 seconds Release, bring the L back up, and repeat When finished, repeat the exercise on your left side Need a visual? Here is a YouTube demonstration of the sleeper stretch. Standing Wall Angel And Advanced Variation The standing wall angel is excellent for posture and scapular control. Find a nice, flat wall you can lean … Read more

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