Correct Posture on a Surfboard

Adopting the correct posture on the surfboard is one of the fundamental pillars for achieving balance, control, and fluidity on the wave. Poor body positioning can make paddling more difficult, cause unnecessary falls, or prevent proper manoeuvres.

Whether you are learning or looking to improve your technique, taking care of your posture is essential for safe and effective progress.

Key elements for good posture on the board

Below are the main elements to keep in mind in order to maintain proper posture:

1. Foot placement

• Your feet should be slightly wider than shoulder-width apart to provide stability.
• The back foot should be positioned over the fins, at a 90º angle to the board’s length axis.
• The front foot should be over the centre of gravity of the board—or slightly in front of it—at an angle of about 30º.

Common mistake: Placing both feet too close together or too far back, which slows the board down and reduces manoeuvrability.

2. Knee flexion

Your knees should be slightly bent, pointing forward, forming an angle of approximately 30º.

Common mistake: Opening the knees out to the sides, which causes imbalance and stiffness.

3. Back and torso posture

Your back should remain straight with a slight forward lean.

Your torso should be slightly turned towards the nose of the board.

Common mistake: Keeping the torso completely parallel to the stringer, which reduces visibility and responsiveness.

4. Arm position

Your arms should be relaxed, raised, and aligned with the rails of the board.

They help maintain balance and follow the body's movements.

Common mistake: Letting both arms drop to one side, which throws off your centre of gravity.

5. Head and gaze direction

Your gaze should always be fixed on where you want to go. This acts as a crucial reference point so your body reacts accordingly.

Common mistake: Looking down or at your feet, which makes it harder to anticipate and stay in control.

How to improve your posture on the board?

To achieve optimal posture, it’s recommended that you:

• Practise out of the water, on a board on the sand, simulating correct body position.
• Correct common mistakes with the help of an instructor.
• Do balance and mobility exercises that strengthen the muscles involved in surfing.

Your posture directly affects your performance and safety. Learning to position yourself correctly on the surfboard will not only help you enjoy the waves more, but also progress faster as a surfer. At Oceanside, your surf school in the Canary Islands, we help you build strong foundations so that every session becomes an opportunity to grow and enjoy. Discover our surf lessons for all levels in Gran Canaria.