Stand-up bodyboarding: a complex and lost wave-riding art performed by only a few | Photo: Shutterstock

It is one of the sport's most forgotten disciplines. The stand-up bodyboarding movement had its heyday between the late 1980s and early 1990s, but it continues to be an exquisite art.

It takes practice to become a stand-up bodyboarder. But if you're an accomplished surfer or a drop-knee enthusiast, it will be easier to stand up on the boogie board while trimming the wave at full speed.

The first thing you need to consider is the board you're riding. If you're trying stand-up bodyboarding for the first time, grab a larger board than your regular option.

Big, wide, stiff, and low rocker bodyboards will provide you with the buoyancy and flotation you'll need to transition from a prone to an upright position. Boards with stringers will also help the cause.

Remember that it is not recommended to paddle out using fins because they will make the pop-up movement difficult. And do your first experiments in small, two-foot rollers.

Stand-up Bodyboarding 101

Here's how to start stand-up bodyboarding fast:

  1. Use your arm power to paddle for a wave;
  2. Grab both rails at chest level;
  3. As soon as you catch the wave, arch your back;
  4. Extend your arms and raise your upper torso;
  5. Keep your head up;
  6. Bring both feet on top of the bodyboard at the same time;
  7. Slightly adjust your feet for optimal weight distribution;
  8. Keep a low stance until you get some speed;
  9. Raise your body and ride the wave;

In stand-up bodyboarding, the trick is to find balance.

At an intermediate level, you'll need to master the transitions from rail to rail to complete the spins, the cutbacks, and the floaters that are the salt and pepper of this amazing discipline.

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