Surfing Types - Bodysurfing
If you think you cannot surf without a board, think again. Bodysurfing is the art of riding a wave without the use of a Surfboard or a Bodyboard.
In Bodysurfing, you need swimfins or flippers, handboard (optional), and a Surfing Wetsuit.
Swimfins or flippers are finlike rubber or plastic shoes worn over the feet to help you in moving through the water. Aside from Bodysurfing, swimfins are also used in other water sports such as Bodyboarding, kneeboarding, Diving, and swimming. Wearing swimfins helps the leg muscles in paddling "out the back" and in catching waves.
You may or may not use a handboard, although it is best for fast breaking deep water bank or reef. It allows a bodysurfer to plane higher out of the water and increase speed.
Bodysurfing is not as easy as it seems. To bodysurf, put your fins on and wade out to swimming depth. Wade backwards while keeping a close watch at the oncoming broken waves. Swim out to the breaker line, with your head up to keep an eye on oncoming riders. To get on the wave, pick a direction, paddle hard, put down your arm, and roll onto your back. If you are already experienced, you may do some maneuvers such as spinners, takeoff, and barrel rolls.
If Surfing has Pipeline, Bodysurfing has the Wedge. Located at Newport Beach, the Wedge is one of the most famous Bodysurfing spots in the world. This is for experienced riders only.
Like other water sports, Bodysurfing can be dangerous. It requires special knowledge and techniques as well as physical and mental readiness. To avoid injury, seek competent instruction and familiarize yourself with the surf conditions before heading out.
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