How to Turn Turtle

If you choose to ride a longboard when surfing, turning turtle is one skill that is best learned as soon as possible. Becoming effective at turning turtle will enable you to make it out to the lineup quicker, prevent extended stays in the impact zone and protect other surfers who are also paddling out.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Paddle toward the oncoming wave as quickly as possible, building momentum as you approach.
2. Right before the wave’s whitewater makes contact with you, grab the rails of your surfboard with both hands and hold on as tight as you can.
3. Now, simply roll over so that the front of your body is facing the sky, bringing the board with you, so that the fins, or bottom of the board are also facing upward.
4. Hold on tightly as the wave’s force washes over you.
5. As soon as you feel the bulk of the wave’s energy subside, roll your body, and board back over to a prone position, until you and your surfboard are once again atop the water’s surface with you squarely on top of the board.
6. Quickly situate yourself, look toward the horizon, begin paddling and be prepared to repeat the process.