The duck dive is one of the hardest and most complex skills to learn correctly, as it is not just about strength but about tapping into the wave’s spinning energy to be directed through it. This extended tutorial breaks down the essential physics and physical actions needed for successful duck diving.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Physical Mechanics
The movement starts with the head and shoulders tipping downwards, followed by a driving movement of the foot or knee forward onto the tail. The physical action is like a spoon going into ice cream at an angle.
Speed is Essential
Increase your paddle stroke to sprint toward the wave. The faster you paddle, the easier you will pierce and enter the water. This must be done right up until the moment you begin the duck dive.
Body Position
Once underneath the wave, pull your body down to the board instead of pulling the board up to your body. Pulling the board up causes you to lose depth, while pulling your body down helps you maintain depth.
Longboard/Big Board Technique
For longboards and other high-volume boards, use a slice duck dive. Instead of pushing straight down, slightly tip or slice the board to the side as you push underneath to reduce the board’s surface resistance.
Eyes Open
Try to keep your eyes open underwater. The turbulence creates bubbles, and you can, with practice, spot the non-bubble water (less turbulent) and move yourself into those patches to receive less impact from the wave.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Putting Head Down Early
Putting your head down in an attempt to be vertical early. This is not the best approach; keep your head up and increase your paddle sprint until the moment you start the downward tip.
Pulling Board Up
Pulling the board up to your body while underwater. This is a common mistake that loses crucial depth, which is what you want to maintain to avoid the strongest turbulence.
Throwing the Board
If you must throw the board as a last resort, you must check that there is nobody behind you. You must dive to the bottom to avoid the board hitting someone.