How to Turn on a Surfboard

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

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Women's Athletic Swimsuits
• Sunscreen
• Adhesive Traction Pads
• Board Shorts
• Surf Leashes
• Surf Waxes
• Surfboard Bags
• Surfboard Ding Repair Kits
• Surfboards
• Surfing Wet Suits

1. 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.

2. Crouch down a bit at the knees and waist.

3. 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.

4. Lean slightly into the turn.

5. Lean further into the turn and apply pressure with your legs as you feel the inside rail, or side, of the board engage.

6. 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.

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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.

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.

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.