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SURF How-To - How to Increase Your Speed and Boost your Performance

NRewog | Jan 26, 2010 |

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Speed is the essence of surfing. The amount you can generate, or lack thereof, will determine your ability to ride the ocean's waves. Travelling at a speed below that of the waves breaking motion means it owns you and you have little power to control your ride. On the other hand, harnessing the waves energy and maximizing your use of it, will allow you to not only control your path along the wave as it heads for shore, but give you the freedom to pull off maneuvers that are only limited by your imagination and the laws of physics This how to guide aims to help you understand the theory that lies behind maximizing your speed potential on the waves you ride, the rest is up to you! http://www.infobarrel.com/media/image/10542.jpgPockets of Power: Waves generally have more power closer to the breaking part of the wave. The steep, and sometimes curling pocket at the leading edge of the breaking wave is where the energy is at, and keeping yourself and your maneuvering as close to this area guarantees access to the maximum speed potential on that wave. Drawing the Right Lines: It is not just about being in the right place at the right time. How you harness this sweet spot determines the speed you can have at your disposal. Imagine two parallel streams of energy flowing outward from the power pocket, one along the crest (top) of the wave, and one running along the bottom. Take the high road, and gain speed on the descent, bottom turn and head for the lip. Speed is generated whilst heading down-wave, and again as you turn and climb up the face of the wave, using its kinetic energy as it rolls under you for momentum. Whether you are carving broad smooth arches or gouging right angled tracks into the face of the wave, it is the effective flow between top and bottom that will determine to what degree you are master over the wave you are riding. http://www.infobarrel.com/media/image/10545.jpg Another important aspect of technique is limiting the amount of time you're the bottom surface of your board is sitting flat on the face of the wave. By weaving from rail to rail as quickly and frequently as possible will boost your speed tremendously, not to mention the quality of your surfing. Body Dynamics: To achieve and maximize your speed course, you need to make effective use of your body. A low centre of gravity not only keeps you stable, but sets you up like a coiled spring. You need to match the wave's surface and your position on it with a balanced flow between your push and release, as you use your knees to weight and un-weight at the most effective moments. This requires a strong muscular core and effective use of lower body strength, always positioning your weight over your front foot for drive. Like all sporting activities, surfing takes place in the mind before it does on the face of the wave. Consider these theoretical pointers, surf consciously and make an effort to incorporate them into your surfing, and you'll be pleasantry surprised with your new speed and what you can achieve with it. http://www.infobarrel.com/media/image/10544.jpg