Where to catch waves?

[bazza87]

Hey
just having a bit of trouble on where i catch the waves normally i just paddle, use all my body, shift weight down the wave, and still it passes under me i think i probably need to be further in but the wave gets steep i see pros on tv and their boards look like they stay level any suggestions??

[surf patrol]

If the wave gets steep, it sounds like you are not paddling fast enough for the wave to take you. Try getting to your max paddling speed earlier, and don't try to get up until you have caught the wave. Are the waves breaking straight after they pass under you?

[bazza87]

I don't get up until i know i have caught the wave, and no the wave does not break straight after they pass me, so i should go in a bit and start paddling earlier?

[LTran562]

I would say reposition yourself in the lineup, maybe go closer to shore a tad bit. like surfpatrol mentioned, try to position yourself where you would be able to gain your max paddling speed just before the wave breaks. this way you can stay ahead of it and catch it. also i would try to scoot up the board while paddling to make sure you have as much of the boards volume contacting the water as possible, this way you will have maximum paddle efficiency

[bazza87]

Thanks, nailed it today!

[surf patrol]

Good to hear. Now start working on those bottom turns!