Those last few paddles...

[XiloRider]

Most times when I catch a wave, I need a couple extra paddles at the last second to give me some "oomph" and really get me in there.

I notice that some people paddle like they normally do at this stage; others dig both hands in at the same time a couple of times, sort of like a breaststroke.

Is one method more "proper" than the other? I think the "breaststroke" gives me a little more power, but it could be my imagination.

[oldmansurfer]

I usually just keep paddling but on rare occasions I might do a two hand paddle for some reason but not like breaststroke. It doesn’t seem to be something you can repeat as in do two two handed paddles or more in a row. It seems an ineffective paddle method more noticeable when you try to do two or more in a row. This would be a two handed paddle pulling down and back not sideways like breaststroke I guess if it works for you that is great

[waikikikichan]

I always recommend if you have a problem or concern, look back two steps. So if your question is about the “2nd paddle or last few paddles”, maybe something is wrong with the initial 1st paddles. Two steps back would be:
1) are you on the right spot on the board ? - are you too far back that the board doesn’t glide properly or when the wave jacks up ?
2) are you taking off on the right part of the wave ? Too straight or too angled is not good. Are you too inside or outside. Are you going too early and running out of steam right when you need it the most.

By the way, how are your hands when they enter the water ?

[IB_Surfer]

What kind of board and what fins(and size) do you have on there?

[XiloRider]

I always recommend if you have a problem or concern, look back two steps. So if your question is about the “2nd paddle or last few paddles”, maybe something is wrong with the initial 1st paddles. Two steps back would be:
1) are you on the right spot on the board ? - are you too far back that the board doesn’t glide properly or when the wave jacks up ?
2) are you taking off on the right part of the wave ? Too straight or too angled is not good. Are you too inside or outside. Are you going too early and running out of steam right when you need it the most.

By the way, how are your hands when they enter the water ?

I try to cup my hands slightly with fingers slightly spread. I try to point them downward so they "dive" instead of slap the water. I do need to work on my paddle, I'm sure. I tire easily, which makes me think I'm not efficient (being middle aged not withstanding).

[XiloRider]

What kind of board and what fins(and size) do you have on there?

I have one of those Torq "Mod Fun" funboards (7'6"). It's got a thruster setup; just the fins that came with the board.

[IB_Surfer]

What kind of board and what fins(and size) do you have on there?

I have one of those Torq "Mod Fun" funboards (7'6"). It's got a thruster setup; just the fins that came with the board.

No markings on the fins so you can see the size and shape? Maybe it came with size L and you should try size M

[XiloRider]

What kind of board and what fins(and size) do you have on there?

I have one of those Torq "Mod Fun" funboards (7'6"). It's got a thruster setup; just the fins that came with the board.

No markings on the fins so you can see the size and shape? Maybe it came with size L and you should try size M

No, they are completely blank (and "cheap" looking.)

[IB_Surfer]

If plastic try some performance cores, usually thinner so a little bit less resistance. If you have a bud that has fins place them one on top of each other, the usual size is M, or on older fins size 5. Anyway, if your bud's fins are smaller your fins are probably too big, and drag more.