Mastering the Duck Dive: How to Get Through Waves Like a Pro
Bodyboarding is one of the adventurous water spots in Sydney, NSW. It requires a knack for handling different wave conditions and right techniques. One of the key techniques you must master as a bodyboarder is the duck dive.
The duck dive enables riders to pass under an incoming wave while keeping momentum towards the next wave. It is one of the most difficult techniques that need precision and a comfortable bodyboarding. In today’s guide, we will break down the steps to mastering your duck dive to let you enjoy this water-based activity without any hindrance.
Let’s Get Started!
1. The Right Entry Point is Crucial
Before trying a duck dive, ensure you anticipate the movement of wave and pick the right moment to dive. Delaying the dive may allow the wave to push you back. If you go too early, you might resurface and the wave may pass over you. So, it is good to wait for the deepest and smoothest part of the wave, before it actually breaks. It helps you dive under the turbulence and easily come out.
2. Correct Hands Positioning
Your hand placement on the bodyboard plays a pivotal role in achieving a successful duck dive. As the wave approaches:
- Ensure you grip the nose (top) of the board firmly with both hands.
- It is crucial to open your arms slightly to push the board downward when diving.
- Slightly bend your elbows to gain control.
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3. Forcefully Push Down the Board
After positioning your hands, put pressure to push the board downwards into the wave. This allows you to submerge fully beneath the surface against the force. Ensure you use the upper body endurance to drive the board deep and tilt it at an angle that lets you cut through the wave.
It is important to keep your core and shoulders engaged when pressing the board down. Don’t push the board too steep as it may delay your exit from the dive.
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4. Use of Knee and Foot
To ensure you get deep enough under the wave, use your knee or foot to give yourself an extra push. There are two common techniques:
- Knee Push Method: Once the board is submerged, place one knee on the tail (back) of the board and apply downward pressure.
- Foot Kick Method: Instead of using your knee, extend one leg and kick downward, similar to a swimming motion, to help drive your body further under the wave.
This additional push helps prevent the wave from pulling you backward and allows you to resurface with more momentum.
5. Perfect the Resurface Timing
Most divers resurface too early and end up stuck in the wave’s turbulence. It is crucial to keep your body low until the wave fully passes over you. It is also good to start to angle your board upward and use arms and fins to pass through the wave seamlessly. Remember that a well-timed resurfacing helps you gain momentum easily. Ensure you pick the right bodyboard for duck dive.
Wrapping Up
The duck dive initially challenges your surfing skills but can be a game changer if executed perfectly. You can perfect your dive timing, engage your arms, use knee and foot and control your board for a perfect ride. Ensure you have the best quality turbo board in Sydney for a safe and adventurous bodyboarding experience.
