How to Ride a Boogie Board

While not everyone can master the art of surfing, most can get the hang of riding a boogie board. Also referred to as bodyboards, these small, sometimes flexible plastic or thick foam boards are used for riding the tops of waves to shore rather than surfing the waves themselves. Remember to stay in view of the lifeguard at all times and to watch for fellow boarders and swimmers, particularly if you are using your board on a crowded beach day.

Instructions

    • 1

      Swim out a little beyond where the waves are breaking. Be careful not to swim out so far that you cannot touch the bottom of the ocean floor or are in an area that is unprotected by lifeguards.

    • 2

      Get on the board so the majority of your body is on the piece. You should be able to hold the board with your hands, with your head up, while your the majority of your chest as well as your torso and thighs/legs are resting on the board.

    • 3

      Wait for a wave. Start paddling with your arms and kicking with your legs once the wave begins to break. This will be right before white caps appear over the wave.

    • 4

      Ride the wave to shore while holding onto the board with your arms. Steer the board if desired by using your arms to maneuver the front of the board.