How to Perfect Your Paddling Position on a Surfboard to Catch More Waves

Ben Considine

If you're paddling hard but still missing waves, the issue may not be your effort—it might be your body positioning on the board.

This is one of the most common mistakes surfers make, and it has a massive impact on how effectively you can get into waves.

Let’s break it down.

Why Positioning on the Board Matters So Much

When you lie too far back on your board, you create drag—especially at the tail. This slows the board down, reduces your glide, and makes it much harder to generate enough speed to match the wave.

Most surfers shift too far back because they’re trying to avoid nose-diving (also called "pearling") when dropping into steeper waves. It's a natural reaction—but ironically, it leads to missing waves altogether.

The Goldilocks Zone: Not Too Far Forward, Not Too Far Back

The key to strong paddling and smooth wave entry is finding what I like to call the Goldilocks zone—that perfect middle ground on the board where:

  • You're not sinking the tail

  • You're not digging the nose

  • The board planes flat and cleanly across the water

How to Find the Right Position on Your Board

Here’s a simple and effective way to dial in your optimal paddling position:

  1. Look at Your Board Without You on It
    Place your board in calm water and watch how it floats. You’ll notice a gentle lift at the nose and tail—this is due to the rocker.

  2. Match That Shape When You’re Lying on It
    When you lie on the board, try to position yourself so that you recreate that neutral, balanced planing position. The board should sit as flat as possible on the water—minimizing drag and maximizing glide.

  3. Check for Common Signs of Poor Positioning

    • If the nose is sticking way up = you’re too far back

    • If water is pushing over the nose = you’re too far forward

    • If the board glides smoothly and you feel connected = you're right in the sweet spot

  4. Fine-Tune Based on Your Board and Body Type
    Longer boards with more volume may require subtle adjustments, and your height and weight can also influence where that balance point sits. Don’t be afraid to shift a little forward or back and test how the board responds during paddling.

Why This Matters for Catching More Waves

When your board is in the right planing position, you paddle faster with less effort, and you match the speed of the wave more easily. That smooth lift into the wave becomes much more achievable—and you’re less likely to miss critical takeoffs.

Plus, you gain confidence knowing your paddling setup is working with you, not against you.

Final Thoughts

Wave-catching isn't just about strength or fitness—it’s about technique and smart positioning.

Get your body placement dialled in, and you’ll:

  • Paddle more efficiently

  • Catch more waves

  • Conserve energy for better rides

Next time you’re out, pay attention to how your board feels beneath you. A few inches forward or back could be the difference between frustration and flow.

 

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