How to Steer a Surfboard

Surfing is a popular recreational sport that some people pick up easily and others find very difficult. Some instruction and training can go a long way while you're learning to surf. Having the correct equipment suited to your ability helps too. Steering a surfboard is largely down to the distribution of the surfer's weight over the surfboard.

Things You'll Need

  • Surfboard
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use your hands and arms as paddles to steer the surfboard while you are lying down waiting to catch a wave. Paddling with only your right arm will rotate the surfboard to the right, and vice versa.

    • 2

      Get yourself in the correct position facing back toward the land and paddle hard as the wave approaches.

    • 3

      Once you feel the wave push you forward, spring to your feet as soon as possible. Space your feet out so that you are well balanced. For extra balance hold your arms out to the side and lower your center of gravity by bending your knees.

    • 4

      While standing up, face the direction that you want to be going in. Leaning in the direction that you want to steer will shift the direction of the surfboard.

    • 5

      The more you lean, the quicker the surfboard will turn. The surfboard will tilt onto its rail, and the natural curve of the surfboard will propel the surfboard in that direction.

    • 6

      For faster steering, apply more pressure to the surfboard from your back foot. This foot should be positioned over the fin or fins depending on what type of surfboard you are using.

    • 7

      Use the fins to steer by distributing more weight to either the left or the right of the surfboard's tail, depending on what direction you want to travel. The fins act as a rudder for the surfboard.