How to Turn on a Surfboard

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

Rate: (6 Ratings)

The first thing you have to do once you catch a wave and stand up is turn toward the unbroken shoulder of the wave.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Be sure your feet are set solidly before you turn, that you are well balanced and that you have a good sense of the board under you.
Step2
Crouch down a bit at the knees and waist.
Step3
Apply pressure with either your two heels or two toes, depending on whether you are "goofy" or "regular" and whether you are turning to the left or right.
Step4
Lean slightly into the turn.
Step5
Lean further into the turn and apply pressure with your legs as you feel the inside rail, or side, of the board engage.
Step6
Return your center of balance upright until it's directly over your board as you complete the turn.

Tips & Warnings

  • To turn a longboard you'll have to take a step back to get more of your weight over the tail. Step forward again to complete the turn.
  • Surfing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 9/7/2006 Don't lean in too far, if you do, you will probably shoot right to the top of the wave. That may be good if you are trying to get air, but not as a beginner.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Surf with your head and eyes. Ignore the board under your feet. Look at the place you want to turn and, as you get close, look at the place you want your turn to end. The board will follow as long as you maintain balance.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Stay crouched low on your board. You'll be amazed by the difference keeping your center of gravity low can make on your board control.

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eHow Article: How to Turn on a Surfboard

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