Use this ‘push-up technique’ to negotiate small waves.
- Just before the wave or white water hits the front of your board, place your hands on the sides of the board and push yourself up off the deck.
- Let the water pass between you and the board. This reduces the ability of the wave to slow you down or push you back.
- Lie down as soon as the wave or white water passes your torso.
- Check the conditions ahead and trim the board.
- Continue paddling out to sea as quickly as possible to limit the wave pushing you backwards.