This tutorial, Episode 1 of the “How to Surf Better” Bottom Turns series, breaks down the foundational maneuver for maximizing speed and setting up top turns. The lesson emphasizes the critical balance between compression, extension, and weight transfer, including a dedicated Carver surf skate drill to practice translating these movements to the ocean.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Speed and Line Entry
Always generate your speed at the top third of the wave before dropping down. Go to the bottom and compress into that bottom turn to maximize the turn’s vertical drive and extension.
Compression and Extension
The bottom turn is initiated by compressing low and is completed by extending out of the turn. This sequence loads and releases energy, translating into speed and height for the next maneuver.
Weight Transfer and Drive
When pushing through the turn, you must transfer your weight to drive off the **tail** of the board. Drive your back knee into your front knee and push when you feel the rail (or wheels, on the surf skate) grip the surface.
Carver Drill Focus
The surf skate drill is designed to reinforce the habit of compressing into the turn, driving off the tail, and extending out. The goal is to feel the wheels gripping, which emulates the resistance provided by the fins and rail in the water.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Front-Foot Weight
If you feel the tail of the board (or the back wheels of the surf skate) sliding out during the turn, your weight is too far forward too soon. You must shift your weight back to drive and control the turn from the tail.
Not Compressing Enough
A failure to compress low enough into the bottom turn limits the stored energy, resulting in a weak extension and less speed and vertical drive for the top turn.
Lack of Body Rotation
Failing to rotate your head and shoulders toward where you want to go during the compression phase will limit your ability to set the rail and complete the arc of the bottom turn.