How to Surf on a Skimboard

Skimboarding dates back to the 1920s and originated in Laguna Beach, California. A skimboard is a counterpart of a surfboard and is used to glide across the surface of the water. Skimboards are shorter and wider than surfboards. They are used near the shoreline where a wave washes up onto the shore. While skimboarding is a fast-paced sport, it is still considered a relatively small sport. Learning how to surf on a skimboard can provide you with new entertainment while at the beach.

Things You'll Need

  • Surf wax
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a location. If you live near a beach, you will be able to get a lot of practicing in. If you are on vacation, choose a beach that is relatively flat and preferably less crowded. This will provide you with more room for practicing.

    • 2

      Purchase or rent a skimboard. A skimboard can be purchased at a local surf shop. If you are vacationing, you can choose to rent a skimboard from a stand on the beach or a local surf shop.

    • 3

      Apply surf wax to your skimboard. Apply a thin layer of wax on the center of the board. This will help you maintain your footing while skimboarding.

    • 4

      Stretch your muscles. Complete 10 to 15 minutes of warm-ups in order to help reduce your risk of injury. Loosening your muscles, ligaments and bones will make for an easier skimboarding session and less muscle pain later. Pay close attention to your lower extremities while stretching.

    • 5

      Position the board sideways The board should be parallel to the shoreline. Hop on the board by running up to it. Position your front foot a few inches in front of the center of the board. Your back foot should be positioned at the back of the board to prevent your board from digging into the sand or becoming flooded with water.

    • 6

      Ride the wave residue. Crouch down low to maintain your balance. Shift your weight to the back of the skimboard to glide across the residue from a wave.

    • 7

      Maintain your momentum. Lean back and forth to keep yourself going.

    • 8

      Ride a wave. If you can maintain your balance long enough, you may be able to ride a wave opposed to just wave residue. Keep your rear foot planted and your knees bent to ride over the waves. Maintaining proper stance will allow you to glide along the waves as opposed to plowing through them.