Bodysurfing: A Few Tips from Laird Hamilton

We cannot take credit for this writing, however a friend of mine knowing me as the Bodysurfing guy, ripped it out of the most recent August edition of Men's Journal ( "page 44" if you are interested). We thought it was a great little read about the very great sport of bodysurfing, and figured you guys would love to check out what Laird Hamilton has to say, considering we also have this little gem on our site from him. It's a given that he loves to bodysurf.

"We as a species are connected to the ocean. All living thing come from the ocean. Bodysurfing is a chance to get back to your roots. It's the ability to feel the energy." Laird Hamilton

The Men's Journal Bodysurfing Article

The world’s greatest surfer explains the right way to ride the waves this summer.

The super man approach of riding with both arms outstretched is how most novices wash ashore. But if you're trying to actually ride the wave - to go across the wave and not just barrel straight ahead — you want to ride on your side. Extend one arm out in front - right arm to go right or left arm to go left - and press Off that hand. Your body will roll over on its side, increasing your edge in the water I, and allowing you to cut across the wave better. Then, stretch your other arm behind You and press your palm towards the water as a means to control your arch - as with a surfboard, you want your body to have; a little curve. And the more rigid you are, the faster you go. Fins definitely help, but it’s nice to go natural. It’s a more intimate way to be in the surf. All you have to do is look at President Obama. He has great form. He’s an exceptional bodysurfer. When people in Hawaii see a picture of him bodysurfing they’re like, “Oh, yeah!" It’s not like he just went there and pretended he‘s doing it, especially with his front hand up. That's style points right there.  Let's just say that he's the best bodysurfing President we have ever had.