How to Bodyboard

Your Quick-Start Bodyboarding Guide

Bodyboarding is one of the most accessible and exhilarating ways to experience the ocean. Whether you're chasing your first wave or building confidence in the white water, learning the basics will help you ride safely, smoothly, and with far more enjoyment. This guide covers the essentials to get you started.

Choose the Right Bodyboarding Equipment

Having the right gear makes a massive difference to your safety, comfort, and progression.

  • A quality bodyboard with the correct size and buoyancy for your height and weight.
  • Swim fins for extra propulsion and control through white water and unbroken waves.
  • Fin socks to reduce rubbing and improve fit.
  • Fin savers to secure your fins if they're knocked off in a wipeout.
  • A rash guard or wetsuit for warmth and to prevent chafing.
  • A bodyboard leash to keep your board close after a fall.

If you'd like help choosing your leash style, this guide breaks it down clearly: Bicep vs Wrist Bodyboard Leash - Which Fits Your Ride Best? Click here.

For a deeper understanding of bodyboard build quality and board design, this is worth the read: Leave it to the Shaper – POD Bodyboard Accessories. Click here.

Getting Into Your Riding Position

Positioning sets up everything that follows—it determines your speed and stability.

  • Lie centred on the board with the tail around your lower belly.
  • Keep your elbows on the rails for control.
  • Lift the nose slightly above the water (around 25–50 mm).
  • Maintain a balanced weight distribution to keep the board stable and responsive.

How to Paddle for Wave Catching

Efficient paddling helps you reach the take-off zone quicker and prepares you to catch waves.

  • Hold the nose of the board lightly with both hands.
  • Kick with smooth, steady movements and keep your fins below the surface (for maximum thrust).
  • Use your arms to paddle when needed, similar to freestyle swimming.
  • Practising this technique makes your sessions easier and less tiring.

Catching Your First Waves

Start with gentle white water waves close to shore. They're easy to catch and perfect for developing confidence.

  • Walk out to around knee depth.
  • Lie on your board facing the beach.
  • Start kicking strongly as the wave approaches to build momentum.
  • Keep the nose slightly raised and stay relaxed.

Steering and Riding the Wave

As the wave carries you, shift your weight to steer:

  • Shift your weight forward slightly for speed.
  • Keep one elbow planted on the inside rail.
  • Lean your weight in the direction you want to travel, leading with your hips.
  • Start by riding waves straight into shore, then progress to angled lines and trimming down the wave face.

Stay Safe in the Surf

A few simple habits make every session safer:

  • Choose beaches patrolled by lifeguards.
  • Know your limits and avoid conditions that feel too powerful.
  • Keep an eye on currents, rips, and changing surf.
  • Never bodyboard alone if you're new to the ocean.

Ready to Start Bodyboarding?

Once you've mastered the basics, the ocean becomes an entirely new playground.

Dive Deeper: For comprehensive safety tips, gear breakdown, and etiquette, read our full guide: How to Bodyboard: Your Complete Guide to Surf & Safety Click here.

Explore POD's essential bodyboarding gear to help you grow with confidence:

Your progression starts with the right equipment and the correct technique.

Ready to ride? Everything you need from board covers to pro-grade fins is in the POD Essential Bodyboarding Collection. Shop now and experience the Aussie surf with confidence!

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