Surfing Technique: How to Perform 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.

Once you have taken a wave, you ideally want to build up as much speed as possible.  So you head down to the trough of the wave.  The bigger the drop down the wave, the more speed you will gain.

Once you reach the bottom of the wave, the wave will probably pass you by, or knock you off, if you do not turn to get back onto the face of the wave.

As you near the bottom of the wave, you should start your turn.  Ideally, you will have built up enough speed to propel you through the turn and back up onto the wave face. 

The speed at which you can go into the turn and the amount you lean into your turn will depend on your level of ability.

How to perform a bottom turn
Step 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.

Step 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).

Step 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.

Step 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 (kees bent) ready to push off the next turn.

ASI publishes learn to surf manuals for Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels.  Each manual contains detailed information on skills and knowledge to surf competently at each level, and tips and techniques to improve your skills.

Purchase on the ASI online shop at:
https://www.academyofsurfing.com/product

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