In addition to being fun, playing sports is a way to contribute to physical and mental health. In summer, some water activities stand out, such as surfing, for example. Those who like the sea can take advantage of a beach vacation to learn how to surf and bodyboard and have fun with the whole family.
In this article, you can better understand bodyboarding, as well as the difference between it and other types of practices, such as traditional surfing. Here, we also include tips from those who can practice, what accessories are used and how to start bodyboarding even without any experience. Follow and discover!
What is bodyboarding?
Bodyboarding or bodyboarding is a water sport practiced on the surface of sea waves. The difference between it and surfing is that, in this case, a board called bodyboard is used, in which the practitioner slides across the face, the curve, or the crest of the wave towards the sand. For many years, this sport was called morey boogie, a tribute to the creator of the board
, Tom Morey.
There are many national destinations where the practice can be carried out. Bahia's beaches, for example, have great waves for practitioners of different levels, both beginners and professionals. But can anyone do bodyboarding?
Who can do bodyboarding?
Before you know how to bodyboard, you need to know your capacity for the activity. In general, it is suitable for people of different ages and physical fitness. The main rule is that those interested in starting bodyboarding should know how to swim and be familiar with the sea
.
As it is a water sport, involving variations in the behavior of the seas and in the risk in relation to access to the practice area, it is recommended to have security and mastery to deal with possible unforeseen events. If you can't swim, you need to learn how to swim before seeking instructions on how to learn to surf
.
What are the main accessories used?
If you already know how to swim and are safe to enter the sea and start learning how to surf a bodyboard, you need to be aware of the accessories used. The first and most important is the board. Below, we list the main accessories and features. Check it out!
- Bodyboard board: short and rectangular piece, it is made of hydrodynamic synthetic material. There are different sizes, which must be chosen according to the person ;
- Leash/Stringer: strap attached to the center of the board, which can be attached to the practitioner's leg;
- Duck feet: bodyboard duck feet are widely used to aid in the propulsion and control of the board;
- Neoprene suit: mainly used by those who practice professional bodyboarding, it is suitable for use in cold water;
- Wax/wax: more experienced practitioners can also use this product, spread over the board to create friction between the suit, preventing the athlete from slipping.
As we pointed out, the board is the main accessory used. It is found in different sizes, chosen according to the athlete's height. Check out the indicated board sizes
:
- 1.20 m — 30' board (PP);
- 1.45 m — board 34' (D);
- 1.65 m — board 38' (M);
- 1.85 m — board 42' (G);
- above 1.85 m — 45' board (GG).
How to bodyboard?
Those who want to know how to learn to surf from scratch must be aware of the importance of discovering the sea and having the assistance of professionals with knowledge on the subject.
Therefore, to learn how to bodyboard, learn the best maneuvers, interpret wave movements, know the direction of the wind and prepare for possible risks, the ideal is to seek a bodyboard school. Below, we list a simple step by step that will help you get started in this sport. Check it out!
- To learn how to surf, the first thing you need to learn is paddling: the movement most performed by surfers, it consists of the movement necessary to get on the wave;
- It is possible to row with your arms or legs, where a duck's foot makes all the difference;
- To row with your hands, you need to support your body in the middle of the board and pull out as much water as possible with your arm fully stretched out. The greater the amount of water you “push”, the faster the displacement will be ;
- To row with your legs, you must move your body further back of the board, holding the beak with both hands. Keep your feet straight and do alternate kicks in the water, keeping the fins horizontal;
- In addition to paddling, it is necessary to learn how to get on the wave and drop, start the descent of the wave on top of the board.
Realize that bodyboarding requires a bit of technique, so you must be patient and, at least at the beginning, seek the help of a teacher. After learning the basic techniques, you will be able to evolve in practice on your own, with training alone
.
Now that you know how to bodyboard, how about practicing this sport on the most beautiful beaches in Brazil? We offer several promotional package options for you to plan fantastic activities with incredible conditions!
