As the sparkling waters and sunny days are sure to entice any individual in the waters of South Africa, surfski is an excellent vessel to explore the sea and enjoy the weather. While you might find these gliding gladiators on the water intimidating, the tactics for a good surfski session are much easier than you think.
Unsplash/Benjamin Anderson
Are you looking to paddle in the ocean with confidence? Take a look at a few tips and tricks to keep in mind on your aquatic voyage.
Go in calm waters
As surf skiing can be quite the sport to get the feeling for, you’ll want to learn in the best possible environment that will have you focusing more on improving your technique. Calm sea water without many waves or wind is the best place to conquer the basics and practice your skills in more or less stable conditions.
Start off going with someone with experience
In any new, uncharted territory when it comes to learning a new sport, there are a lot of factors and things to keep in mind when you start out. With a guiding hand, you’ll be able to ask and readjust or reposition yourself to feel more comfortable on your boat.
The buddy system is also vital to keep you safe in open waters, as if an emergency occurrence, there is someone to offer a helping hand and get you out of a sticky situation.
Try to keep your posture in mind
It is vital to keep in mind how you sit on the boat in order to paddle with confidence and power. You’ll need to engage your core to ensure you’re paddling the water with strength, control and stability of your body and boat. By engaging your core, you’ll also be activating your glutes.
If you find yourself losing your balance, you can always put your feet in the water to keep you steady if you’re scared of falling out of your vessel.
Practise paddling
It will take you some time to get your rhythm when paddling in the sea, but there are a few things to keep in mind that could potentially make you feel more stable and stroke with power. You’ll want to keep your hands high and elbows lower when paddling in the water.
Remember, you’ll need to drive your paddle deep in the water in order to move through the water with momentum. Make sure to push down on the blade to ensure the entire paddle is in the water and keep your hands in front on you the entire time.
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