If you’re learning to surf, one essential skill to master is kicking out of a wave. This move is vital for surfers of all levels, as it allows you to exit a wave safely and efficiently, maintaining control of your board. Whether you’re in your first surf lesson or have been riding the waves for years, perfecting your ability to kick out can elevate your overall surfing experience. In this article, we’ll break down the key aspects of kicking out of a wave, why it’s important, and how to practice it effectively with San Diego Surf School.
What Does “Kicking Out of a Wave” Mean?
Kicking out of a wave refers to the technique used by surfers to exit a wave when they no longer wish to ride it or have reached the end of their ride. This is typically done by turning the board toward the wave’s shoulder (the unbroken part of the wave), then pushing the tail of the board out of the wave’s face with a kick or a turn. It’s an essential maneuver for keeping your surfing smooth and controlled, and it’s particularly useful when you’re transitioning to another wave or avoiding dangerous situations like being caught in the impact zone.
The Importance of Kicking Out of a Wave Early
One of the biggest mistakes beginner surfers make is not kicking out of a wave soon enough. By staying on the wave too long, surfers risk getting stuck in the whitewash or getting pummeled by the crashing wave. Kicking out early allows you to avoid unnecessary wipeouts and to transition to the next wave more smoothly. At San Diego Surf School, our instructors emphasize learning this skill early in your surf journey. With proper guidance, you’ll be able to confidently manage the timing and technique of kicking out of a wave with ease.
How to Kick Out: Step-by-Step Guide
Kicking out of a wave may seem tricky at first, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps:
- Positioning: As you near the end of your wave ride, position your board toward the shoulder of the wave. This is the area where the wave begins to lose its power.
- Turning Your Board: Turn the nose of your board toward the shoulder of the wave while keeping your body centered.
- Pushing the Tail Out: Use your back foot to push down on the tail of the board and pivot it out of the wave. The goal is to release the back end of the board from the face of the wave.
- Control: As the board exits, keep your balance and stay focused on controlling your speed and direction.
With regular practice and feedback from expert instructors at San Diego Surf School, you’ll soon feel more confident in kicking out at the right time and improving your overall technique.
Kicking Out of a Wave vs. Riding to the End
Some surfers prefer to ride a wave all the way to the shore, while others practice kicking out of a wave early. The difference between the two largely depends on your goals as a surfer. Riding a wave to the end can be exhilarating and is often practiced by advanced surfers looking for a longer ride. However, kicking out of a wave allows surfers to conserve energy, avoid dangerous situations, and improve their timing for the next wave. At San Diego Surf School, we teach students to recognize when it’s time to ride the wave all the way through and when to kick out early for a smoother experience.
Tips for Mastering the Kick Out
Kicking out of a wave is not a one-size-fits-all technique. Depending on the wave, your skill level, and your board type, you may need to adjust your approach. Here are some helpful tips:
- Practice Timing: The key to a successful kick out is timing. Don’t wait too long—once you feel like you’re nearing the end of the ride, start turning your board.
- Stay Loose: Tension in your body can make it harder to control your movements. Keep your body relaxed and fluid to achieve a smoother exit.
- Use Your Core: Your core muscles play a big role in the success of your kick-out. Engage your core to control your movements and stay balanced.
At San Diego Surf School, we offer specialized surf lessons that focus on these fine-tuned details to help you build muscle memory and confidence in the water.
When to Seek Professional Guidance for Kicking Out
For many surfers, kicking out of a wave can be one of the more challenging maneuvers to master. It requires not only the physical coordination to control your board but also the mental focus to know when the right time is to exit. If you’re struggling to master this technique, seeking a professional surf lesson at San Diego Surf School can provide the guidance and feedback you need to make significant improvements. Our experienced instructors offer one-on-one coaching, focusing on your specific needs and helping you achieve the smoothest, safest exits from every wave.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like any surf maneuver, kicking out of a wave requires practice. The more you surf, the more natural it will feel to exit a wave at just the right moment. Remember that surfing is a journey, and with each wave you catch and kick out of, you’ll build greater confidence and skill. At San Diego Surf School, we’re committed to helping you achieve your surfing goals, no matter how big or small. With expert guidance, personalized instruction, and a supportive surf community, you’ll soon be mastering the art of kicking out and getting ready for the next wave!