To effectively pass under a breaking wave while paddling out, a common technique used on a surfboard is called the "duck dive." Based on the provided reference, the initial crucial step involves submerging the nose of your board.
Understanding the Initial Step
As you paddle towards an approaching wave that is about to break or is already breaking, you need to get your board (and yourself) underneath it. The process starts by pushing the front of the board down into the water.
Starting the Dive: Pressing the Board Under the Nose
The reference outlines the beginning of this maneuver clearly. After paddling towards the wave and getting ready to go "out the back of the wave," you need to initiate the dive by:
- Pressing the board under the nose.
- This is done "First with your hands in a push-up position."
- Your hands should be "By your side holding on to the rails."
This action leverages your body weight and arm strength to drive the nose of the surfboard down into the water, preparing it to slice through the wave rather than being pushed back by its force.
Essentially, you position your hands on the rails near the nose or slightly back, assume a push-up like posture on the board, and forcefully push down to submerge the front section.
Why This Step is Important
Pushing the nose down first is fundamental because it angles the board downwards, allowing it to cut through the water and the wave's energy. Without this initial submersion, the wave would simply push the buoyant nose back towards the shore.
Getting this first step right—pressing the nose down with your hands in a push-up position by your side holding the rails—sets you up to guide the rest of the board and yourself underneath the wave safely.
