How to Bodyboard

Your Quick-Start Bodyboarding Guide

Bodyboarding is one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to experience the ocean. Whether you are catching your first whitewater waves or building confidence in small surf, understanding the fundamentals helps you ride safely, comfortably, and with far more enjoyment.

This page is designed as a practical starting point. It introduces the essential equipment, core concepts, and safety awareness you need before progressing further in the water.

Choose the Right Bodyboarding Equipment

Good equipment plays a major role in comfort, control, and progression. Starting with the right setup helps remove unnecessary frustration and allows you to focus on learning.

  • A quality bodyboard matched to your height and weight.
  • Swim fins to improve propulsion, wave entry, and control.
  • Fin socks to reduce rubbing and improve overall fit.
  • Fin savers to keep fins secure in wipeouts
  • A rash guard or wetsuit for warmth and skin protection
  • A bodyboard leash to keep your board close after a fall

If you are unsure which leash style suits your riding, this guide breaks it down clearly: Bicep vs Wrist Bodyboard Leash – Which Fits Your Ride Best? Read here.

To better understand board construction and design considerations, this article offers helpful insight: Leave It to the Shaper – POD Bodyboard Accessories. Read here.

Body Positioning - The Foundation of Control

Correct positioning affects speed, balance, and control. Beginners benefit most from focusing on balance rather than technical movements.

  • Staying centred on the board helps maintain stability.
  • Keeping the nose slightly elevated prevents pearling.
  • Balanced weight distribution allows smoother wave entry.

These fundamentals become second nature with time and form the base for more advanced riding techniques.

Paddling and Wave Entry - Keep It Simple

Efficient movement in the water helps you reach waves more easily and reduces fatigue.

  • Swim fins provide most of your forward drive.
  • Smooth, controlled kicking is more effective than force.
  • Starting in whitewater builds confidence and timing.

At this stage, consistency matters more than speed. Comfort and rhythm come first.

Riding and Steering Basics

Once the wave picks you up, small weight shifts guide the board.

  • Leaning slightly forward increases speed.
  • Subtle weight shifts help control direction.
  • Begin by riding straight before attempting angled lines.

Progression happens naturally as awareness and confidence increase.

Stay Safe in the Surf

Ocean awareness is essential, especially when learning.

  • Choose beaches patrolled by lifeguards.
  • Be aware of currents, rips, and changing conditions.
  • Stay within your limits and avoid crowded peaks.
  • Do not bodyboard alone when you are new to the water.

Ready to Go Further?

This page covers the essentials. For a deeper understanding of technique, wave selection, safety, and surf awareness, we recommend reading our complete guide:

How to Bodyboard – Your Complete Guide to Surf & Safety
Read the full guide here.

Explore Essential Bodyboarding Gear

Your progression starts with the right equipment and a solid foundation.

Ready to ride? Explore the POD essential bodyboarding range and build confidence in the water with gear designed for real surf conditions.

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