how 2 ride a wave sideways..........

[lizzxxxx]

ok-i know dis is probly a dumb question but im new to surfing and hey i just want to learn how to get better so here it goes.......how de hell du ride a wave sideways??you know what i mean like i can stand up goin straight in towards the beach but i cant figure out how to go sideways and it looks easy when i watch surfers doin it. cud someone tell

[bluesnowcone]

when you paddel for the wave look down the line ( look along the wave in the direction you want to go) and then when you pop up lean slightly in that direction and you should just go that way if you keep on looking that way.

[Beachbum]

Ya your eyes have a great deal in making you turn. I learned by practicing and just looking down the line and leaning in that direction. You may also slant your board in the direction your heading while paddling for the wave.

[Driftingalong]

Also, right after you pop-up point your leading arm in the direction you want to go.

[lizzxxxx]

when you paddel for the wave look down the line ( look along the wave in the direction you want to go) and then when you pop up lean slightly in that direction and you should just go that way if you keep on looking that way.

tanx ill try it tomoro

[waveseeker]

Eyes and shoulders - if you rotate your shoulders 90 degrees to the wave your body will automatically try to follow, you will fall in afew times as you get a feel for the board but it will happen....

[lizzxxxx]

Eyes and shoulders - if you rotate your shoulders 90 degrees to the wave your body will automatically try to follow, you will fall in afew times as you get a feel for the board but it will happen....

thank u ill try dat

[rich r]

Also, depending on wave size.. on the smaller waves, you can try and take off, paddling, at a slight angle.

The bottom turn, though, is the biggest and most important move in surfing, in my opinion. As soon as you come down that drop, try straightening out your back leg and pivoting your foot a bit, leaning in the direction you want to go (note, your knees should be bent when you are standing so you can pump and move like this).

Also, try holding your arms and hands in front of you like you're holding a big machine gun, and keep them there (versus flailing them behind you for balance). I find for beginners it helps them focus their balance much better.