The Turtle Roll (or Eskimo Roll) is a crucial technique for longboarders because a messed-up roll takes 100 times more energy than doing it right. By mastering these three steps, you can conserve energy, get under the waves faster, and keep your board.
Key Takeaways & Tips
Step 1: The Anchor
Before the wave hits, roll onto your back and pull the board down vertically. The goal is to get your body vertical (head down, toes first) and sink the board so that its nose is as deep as possible. This anchors the board and deflects the wave’s energy over the top.
Step 2: The Hold
Once the board is vertical and deep, lock your elbows and hold the board close to your chest. The board should be held near where you paddle, so when you roll back up, you are immediately in the correct paddle position.
Step 3: The Swim Up
As the wave passes, use the momentum of the board floating back up to propel yourself. Use your far elbow to throw yourself over the board and land back in the exact spot you need to be to paddle immediately.
Head Safety
Never pull the board down towards your face, as the wave’s turbulence can cause the board to hit you in the head. Maintain vertical distance with locked elbows to let the turbulence go over the top of the board.
Mental Toughness
The Turtle Roll requires holding your breath longer and exerting yourself physically. Practicing breath training helps you adapt to low-oxygen situations, which builds endurance and decreases the recovery time needed between rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Holding Too Loosely
Holding the board far away or loosely, especially with straight elbows. This risks hyper-extending your elbows and the wave ripping the board out of your hands.
Snaking the Board
Getting back on the board slowly. Lying beside the board or readjusting your position after surfacing means you haven’t gained any ground and the next wave will catch you, costing tons of energy.
Bending at the Hips
Failing to get your body truly vertical. You must use your body’s full weight to penetrate the water vertically and bring the nose down deep. Bending at the hips will not get you deep enough.