At PB Surf School, we believe that advancing your surfing to include aerial maneuvers not only amplifies the thrill of surfing but also significantly enhances your overall skill set. Aerial surfing, or ‘air’, involves launching off the wave and into the air, executing various tricks before landing back on the wave. This article will guide you through the techniques and tips to master aerial surfing, allowing you to take your surfing to new heights—literally!
Foundation First: Understanding the Basics
Before attempting your first aerial, it’s crucial to have a solid foundation in basic surfing skills. Mastery in controlling your board, a deep understanding of wave dynamics, and proficient paddling techniques are all essential. At PB Surf School, we ensure that our surfers build on a strong base of these essential skills.
Choosing the Right Wave
Not every wave is suitable for performing aerials. Ideal waves for aerial maneuvers are usually steeper and have a fast-breaking section that provides the necessary lift. It’s important to choose a wave that has enough power to propel you into the air. Observing and selecting the right wave is a skill developed over time and with experience.
Speed Is Your Friend
To successfully launch into an aerial, you need considerable speed. As you approach the section of the wave where you plan to launch, increase your speed by taking strong, committed paddle strokes and performing a bottom turn that accelerates you along the face of the wave.
The Launch Technique
– Approach Angle: As you reach the launching point, approach the wave at an angle rather than head-on. This technique helps you use the wave’s energy to lift off.
– Compression and Release: Just before launching, compress your body by bending your knees deeply. As you reach the lip of the wave, extend your legs explosively to spring off the wave.
– Board Control: Keep your board close to your feet. Some surfers use a slight foot adjustment—a foot shuffle—to ensure their board is securely under them as they take off.
Mid-Air and Landing
– Control and Style: Once airborne, maintain control of your board with your feet. Use your arms for balance and decide on any tricks or turns mid-air.
– Anticipate the Landing: Look for your landing spot on the wave. Keeping your eyes on the landing spot helps in executing a smooth re-entry.
– Soft Knees: Ensure your knees are bent upon landing to absorb the impact and maintain balance as you transition back to the wave face.
Practice and Patience
Aerial surfing requires consistent practice and patience. Initially, focus on smaller, manageable airs and gradually progress to more complex maneuvers as your confidence and skills develop.
Conclusion
At PB Surf School, we are enthusiastic about helping our surfers achieve their dreams of soaring above the waves. Mastery in aerial surfing is not achieved overnight but with persistent practice, the right techniques, and guidance from experienced instructors, you’ll find yourself mastering this exhilarating aspect of surfing. As always, safety is paramount, so ensure you are confident in your basic skills before attempting aerial maneuvers.
Ready to start flying over the waves? Book your aerial surfing lesson online now at PB Surf School, and after your session, share your goals or experiences in the comments below. Let’s elevate our surfing together!
