How to Bodyboard in the Ocean

Bodyboarding is a recreational activity that is similar to surfing, but involves the person lying on his stomach while riding waves. The advantage of this activity is that it is considerably easier to learn than surfing. In order to effectively bodyboard in the ocean, it is important to understand the fundamentals of paddling out and getting on top of a wave. Following five steps should help most individuals learn the basics of this process.

Things You'll Need

  • Bodyboard
  • Leash
  • Scuba fins
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on your scuba fins and attach your bodyboard leash to your upper arm before going into the ocean. The scuba fins will assist in propelling you through the water and the leash will prevent you from losing your bodyboard if you wipe out.

    • 2

      Walk into the water backwards until you are in knee-high water. Once you are in deep enough, lay with your stomach down on top of your bodyboard. Keep your weight centered on your bodyboard and keep the nose approximately 1 to 2 inches above the water.

    • 3

      Paddle out into the ocean by kicking your fins and moving your arms as if you were swimming. Duck underneath waves until you reach your desired location. Dip the nose of your bodyboard under each approaching wave, dive underneath each wave and then resurface.

    • 4

      Lay on top of your bodyboard when you reach your desired location. Wait until you find a wave that you want to ride.

    • 5

      Turn your bodyboard toward the beach and ride the wave by holding onto your bodyboard and kicking your scuba fins. Hold onto the rails of your bodyboard and press the nose of your bodyboard down slightly to gain some speed and allow the wave to guide you back to shore. Keep your head above water and keep propelling yourself by continually kicking your fins.