Step-by-Step Breakdown
Climb (Extension)
Drive off your bottom turn and extend your body to climb up the wave face. Unweight the board slightly as you reach the top third of the wave.
Drop (Compression)
As you turn the board back down the face, compress your body and push down. Gravity + your push = acceleration.
Rhythm
Link these movements together in a fluid, rhythmic motion. Up-down, up-down. Like a sine wave moving down the line.
Rail Work
Use your rails, not just your fins. Tip the board from rail to rail to harness the energy of the wave face.
Fast-track with coaching
Video analysis or a water session can clean up rail work, cutbacks, and speed generation faster than trial and error.
Find local coachesPro tips
- Stay in the top third of the wave (high line) for maximum potential energy.
- Don't wiggle! Wiggling flat on the board slows you down.
- Use your arms to throw your weight forward.
Ready to put this in the water?
Book a lesson with a local coach or surf school, then match your board to your level.