Lakey Peterson and Ethan Ewing break down the frontside bottom turn, which they identify as the single most important turn in surfing because it sets up the rest of the wave. The analysis focuses on compression, rail engagement, and coiling the torso to maximize power and projection into the top turn.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Compression and Rail Engagement
As the bottom turn starts, compress down by using your hips, knees, and ankles just like a squat. This puts weight onto your surfboard and engages the inside rail.
Back Hand Placement
The back arm (inside arm) should hover directly over the water, staying close to or just touching the wave face. This is essential for controlling the lean and keeping the inside rail engaged.
Apex Timing
The apex of your bottom turn should be behind the section you plan to hit. This position then projects you into the critical power source of the lip.
The Coiling Transition
As you come around the turn, your back arm starts to fly back, and you begin to unweight your knees and body. This torques your body towards the lip, creating a weightless sensation just before the top turn.
Stacking for Power
When compressing, your hips, knees, and ankles should be stacked directly over the top of each other. This stacking provides a tight coil that maximizes power and inside rail engagement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Hinging vs. Squatting
A common mistake is being in a hinge motion (bending at the waist) rather than a squat motion (knees and hips stacked). Hinging reduces compression, lifts the hips too high, and results in less control and power.
Turning Too Early
Bottom turning too far up the face (e.g., higher than the power source) will project you too far out on the face, causing you to bog the rail or miss the critical part of the lip.
Eyes Leaving the Target
Never let your eyes leave the part of the wave you are ultimately trying to hit. Your eyes lead the maneuver, ensuring the body and board follow the correct line.