How to Boogie Board or Swim Into a Wave

The most important part of boogie boarding or bodysurfing is being able to feel the wave lift you up in time to paddle. Once the wave has lifted you, all you have to do is paddle and ride the wave.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Boogie Board Into a Wave

1. Get on the boogie board and paddle out beyond the break line. Paddle out in between sets of waves so that you struggle less getting out there.

2. Hang out on your boogie board and wait for the next set of waves to pick up and roll toward shore.

3. Wait for the wave to pick you up and then start paddling into the wave, using your feet. Turn the boogie board away from the direction the wave is breaking.

4. Grab the front of the board with your inside hand, or the hand facing the wave, and grab the side of the boogie board with your other hand. Hold on and ride the wave to shore.

Swim Into a Wave

5. Swim out past the break line, in between wave sets so you have less of a struggle. If you get caught in the break line, dive down under the water and swim beneath the wave.

6. Watch for a new set of waves to roll in toward shore. When the waves start coming, get ready to swim.

7. Wait for the wave to pick you up and then start swimming as hard as you can, using your arms and legs. Turn your body slightly away from the direction of the wave break.

8. Swim hard until the force of the wave pushes you along, then enjoy the ride to shore.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear swim fins, or specially designed bodysurfing fins, to help propel you through the water faster.
• When bodysurfing, it's easier to catch a wave if you stay where you can reach the bottom.

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