How to Do a Barrel Roll on a Bodyboard

How to Do a Barrel Roll on a Bodyboard
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While bodyboarding is often considered surfing's simpler counterpart, the sport has advanced considerably since its creation in 1971 by surfer Tom Morey. Since then, bodyboarding has evolved to contain all the elements that make it a legitimate extreme sport, including sponsored contests, big-wave riding and a collection of complex tricks. Because the bodyboard is so much smaller than a surfboard, aerial moves are a little easier to accomplish, including the famous El Rollo, also known as a barrel roll.

Step 1

Wait for a wave that has a steep face and a lip that looks like it is going to barrel over.

Step 2

Paddle in and catch the wave. Wait until you have a substantial amount of speed and head towards the lip.

Step 3

Approach the lip on an angle that will allow you to pop over the lip and land in front of the wave.

Step 4

Hit the lip at full speed and throw your weight upwards and pull your board towards the front lip of the wave.

Step 5

Land the trick so that the bottom of the board lands first. Maneuver yourself back into the wave's rail to set yourself up for your next trick.

Things You'll Need

  • Bodyboard

References

Article reviewed by William H Last updated on: Apr 10, 2011

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