SURFING TECHNIQUE - Performing a Bottom Turn

The bottom turn is performed at the trough or “bottom” of the wave.  Hence, it is called the "bottom turn".   It is usually the first turn you perform after you have taken off on a wave. 

1 - Take off and head down the wave to the bottom/trough of the wave.  Be sure you are in a crouching position (knees bent) as you are dropping down the wave.

2 - As you reach the bottom of the wave, you should be crouched at maximum position.  Start to lean over into your turn (ready to spring).

3 -  Continue to lean over into the turn.  Once you are half way through your turn, flex your legs to straighten (like a spring uncoiling), pushing hard off the base of the wave and driving yourself up onto the wave face again. 

4 -  Use the pressure over your front foot to control the sharpness of the turn.  As you head for your next manoeuvre, your body recoils again (knees bent) ready to push off the next turn.