Every year I go to the beach somewhere on the east coast. The waves in the east are notably small compared to many places on the west coast, but it’s still possible for people to have fun in the waves. Boogy boards are of course very popular, but there’s always a group of people trying to body surf.
Body surfing is the act of riding a wave without the assistance of a floatation device such as a surf or boogy board. But no one seems to understand how it works.
On the west coast considerable skills is needed to ride the larger waves, and many of them can be ridden in the techniques that are employed on the east coast. But they don’t work on the east coast. I’ve observed for many years the failings of people that cannot ride these waves, yet insist on trying anyway (I can admire effort I guess).
So here is the three step guide on how to body surf east coast waves:
1: Learn to swim
2: Learn to swim competitively
3: Grow some cojones
Yes by following these simple steps you’ll be riding waves for up to 60 seconds at a time. In my experience, the ones that have no trouble body surfing are the ones that have swam competitively. They know what kind of body angle is needed, and also to keep their head down. They can also hold their breath long enough to stay in the wave. But fear keeps people from really having fun. It’s possible to hurt yourself, badly, body surfing. So you have to learn to let go of your fear in order to have fun. And finally, I said learn to swim first because at least 75% of the people trying to ride a wave, obviously cannot swim.
Photo: Mike Baird
 By The Weakonomist |
The Weakonomist is the founder of Weakonomics. Clicking the picture of the puppy will tell you more about him. If you like what you're reading consider subscribing to the blog, following him on Twitter, and checking out the related posts below. Please consider a donation if you really enjoy Weakonomics. Also keep in mind that nothing I say can be construed as financial advice. |
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