Turning a Longboard

A longboard is a suitable board for beginner surfers, because longboards do not go as fast as surfboards and are easier to control when turning. Turning on a longboard is a technique that takes practice to perfect, so try not to get frustrated if you wipe out during your practice sessions. It is, however, a necessary skill for surfing because turning allows you to ride the waves and get ahead of the breaks so you can have a longer ride.

Instructions

    • 1

      Paddle out to the waves by lying on the board, stomach down, while your arms do the paddling. Position the longboard to catch a wave as one begins to peel.

    • 2

      Pop up from the prone position so you are standing on the board. Place the dominant foot in back and the other foot at the front, or nose, of the board. As soon as you stand on the board, it will move faster, so be prepared.

    • 3

      Apply pressure to the dominant foot in the back. This foot will be controlling the direction of the longboard in unison with the wave you are riding. As you apply pressure to the back foot, lift the front foot and front of the board together and shift it slightly to the direction you want to move in. This small pivot will turn the board.

    • 4

      Press down with both feet at the heels or the toes, crouching at the knees. Lean or point your upper body in the direction you wish to turn the longboard. A slight change in the upper part of the body will carry you in that direction.