This tutorial provides a quick guide on how to duck dive effectively, emphasizing that the maneuver helps surfers get out to the lineup without wasting energy or being dragged back by waves. The technique is essential for tackling waves that are too big to go over the top of.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Initial Momentum
As a wave approaches, you must increase your paddle speed for the few remaining strokes before your duck dive. This ensures you have a good amount of momentum to drive the board below the surface and out the back of the wave.
Nose Push
Press the board under nose first with your hands in a push-up position by your side, holding on to the rails.
The Final Drive
Slide your foot up underneath you onto the tail of the board and push down while simultaneously continuing to push down with your arms. This final move tilts you under the wave.
The Kick and Exit
Once you have tilted under the wave, release your legs into a frog kick. Simultaneously slide your hands up the rail of the board towards the nose to give you a boost of speed back to the surface.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Knee Dive
A less effective way to duck dive is by using your knee as a driving force to push the board below the surface. This technique is less effective if the waves get bigger or the whitewater becomes intense.
Wasting Energy
Tackling waves head-on instead of going under them wastes unnecessary energy and causes you to be dragged back toward the beach.
Lack of Momentum
Failing to increase paddle speed before the duck dive means you lack the momentum needed to drive the board below the surface and out the back of the wave.