1.

1. Note that the paddlers weight is directly over the front leg, anticipating the start. Having most of the weight on the front foot will allow greater acceleration over the first few steps of the start.

2. Similar to a ski start, the eyes do not look up at the water once in the ‘set’ position.  It is far easier to slow down if needed when running than to try and increase your speed over the last few strides so it is best to start off as fast as possible and not worry about waves until after the first few steps.

2.

1. A line drawn through the body should show a forward weight carriage so that the head and shoulders are above or in front of the foot on the ground.  This will help ensure maximal acceleration during the run.

2. After the first few steps the eyes can now look up at the oncoming waves. The paddler should be at top speed and can either maintain this if the water ahead is flat or slow down if needed.

3.

1. The weight is still forward although care must be taken once into the water to avoid potholes or falling on an uneven bottom.  For this reason it is best for the paddler to run at a slightly more upright angle than in picture 2.

2. Eyes still surveying the water ahead giving the paddler ample opportunity to time the jump on over any waves or to slow down if needed.

4.

1. Weight still forward at all times to maintain full speed if needed but can be kept at the more vertical angle described in the previous picture.

2. Eyes still focused on the waves in order to time to jump on or slow down / stop if required.

3. The opposite hand to that carrying the board should grab the underside of the rail preparing for the jump straight onto the knees or to ‘bunnyhop’ the board across the sandbank.

5.

1. The arms should be locked straight and vertical allowing the legs to drive forwards.

2. When ‘bunnyhopping’ the feet should easily clear the water to avoid drag which will slow the paddler down.

6.

1. When ‘bouncing’ over a wave at the start or throughout the race the hands should be kept at the side of the board whilst going over the wave and not left in the air. This will help the paddlers balance while also allowing them to grab the board quickly if they fall off.

2. The body should be kept directly over the centre of the board at all times when going over a wave to assist with balance.

3. Note the wash left from the tail of the board indicating the speed at which this paddler hit the wave.  That speed is a direct result of all the steps outlined above and is what will enable the paddler to be at the front of the pack and not stuck behind others, trying to fight his or her way through.