Bodyboarding is an offshoot of conventional surfing that involves high-speed maneuvers and aerial tricks. While the surfing stance involves standing atop the board, the bodyboarding stance requires you to place your stomach flat against the deck. Often referred to as the boogie board, the bodyboard features a lightweight foam design.
Shape/Construction
While bodyboards may appear similar to surfboards to the untrained eye, there are a few subtle differences that set them apart. Most bodyboards feature a flattened nose and a rounded tail. For increased turning efficiency, certain models of the bodyboard feature a fin tail design. The bifurcated construction allows the tail of the bodyboard to dig into the wave for hairpin turns. According to Saltwater-Dreaming, a majority of bodyboards are constructed out of a high-density foam material known as polyethylene.
Size Guide
The bodyboard is offered in a myriad of sizes to accommodate the varying statures of beginner, intermediate and expert riders. Choosing a model that corresponds with your physical dimensions will allow you to maintain control of the bodyboard at breakneck speeds. According to Bodyboards, riders with a body weight of 145 to 180 pounds are recommended to choose a board that features a length of 42 inches. Youth-model bodyboards generally have a length of 36 to 36 inches.
Bodyboard Maneuvers
Now that you've chosen a bodyboard, it's time to learn a few of the basic maneuvers. Paddle out past the breaking waves with your chest resting on the deck of the bodyboard. Rotate your shoulders to point the nose of the bodyboard toward the beach. Turn your head to spot a breaking wave. Paddle forward to catch the wave. Lift your feet out of the water as you drop in to the wave. Lean onto the side rail of the bodyboard to traverse the breaking wave. Drag your arm through the water if you need to decrease your speed.
Wetsuit/Fins
While the wetsuit is not always a required piece of bodyboarding gear, it will allow you to maintain your core temperature in frigid waters. Most wetsuits designed for bodyboarding resemble a long-sleeved shirt. When bodyboarding in the colder months of fall, you may want to upgrade to a full-body wetsuit. Regardless of the riding conditions, a pair of swim fins are an essential piece of bodyboarding gear. The fins allow you to quickly propel yourself through the water and provide increased maneuverability.
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