Paddling is one of the most important things when it comes to surfing, it is the foundation that enables you to catch waves, improving your paddling technique is one of the first steps to take to improve your surfing in Bali; it’s not only about riding the waves. Your paddle technique will determine how many waves you catch, how fast you improve and how much energy you save in the water. If you are staying at one of our surf camps in Seminyak or Canggu or Hiriketiya or Weligama we have got you covered to help you improve your paddling.
At Kima Surf, we provide coaching to surfers of all skill levels, with a focus on beginners and intermediates to help you develop the three main paddling pillars of timing, power and speed. This blog teaches us how to develop these abilities. Through our 5-Day Learn to Surf course or 2 daily sessions at our surfcamp you will be paddling like a pro in no time!
Timing your paddling and take off is crucial when trying to catch waves. Paddling too slowly or too late is one of the most frequent beginner mistakes because the wave will just pass by underneath the board leaving you behind which can be really frustrating. Being able to spot waves early, get in the correct position and paddle before the wave lifts your board is a sign of good timing.
At Kima Surf Camps every alternating day we offer surf theory sessions that help you understand wave dynamics and how to read the waves more effectively. When you combine this with daily video analysis you’ll quickly learn how to adjust your paddling pace to the wave’s energy, which is one of the keys to catching more waves with less work.
Need practical assistance? Coaches provide daily input during Kima Surf’s 5-Day Learn to Surf Course to help you achieve perfect posture.
Strength and fitness are very important when it comes to your paddling technique.To optimize the number of waves you catch, surf-specific paddling, endurance, shoulder mobility and explosive strength are important. This is why Kima Surf Camps also does land based training at our camps, all included in your Kima Package.
To improve flexibility and reduce tension in your stiff shoulders join yoga sessions which are provided to guests twice a day (Monday through Saturday). You may also test your upper arm strength on Canggu’s 15-meter climbing wall or work on your balance and coordination on our surf skate ramps.How to rest up after all that strength training? You can unwind in our ice baths or get a surf massage. These extras improve your performance and speed up your recovery the next day.
When trying to catch a wave technique is way more important than speed, flailing your arms and trying to paddle as fast as you can will only hinder your balance and make catching the wave much harder. When paddling it is important to remember to have:
This paddling technique is broken down during our pool sessions, where our surf guides will perfect your paddling technique in the pools at our camps which happen every second day. This way you can develop efficiency and endurance in a secure setting.
Your surfing progress can be hindered by surfing the wrong size surfboard, even if you are really powerful and fit. A board with too little volume for your weight and ability level can make paddling challenging and reduce the number of waves you catch, especially if you’re just starting out.
Kima Surf provides a good range of surfboards from beginner-friendly soft tops to high-performance shortboards. You can switch boards while you’re here if you get better, and our experienced surf guides will pair you with the right board.
Paddle with purpose and avoid panicking. Being nervous or unsure can make paddling quite tiring. But as you gain strength, understanding and rhythm paddling becomes a helpful tool and not a battle. Here at Kima Surf we believe that consistency builds confidence.If you are in Sri Lanka or Bali our experienced surf guides are there to help you, correct you and celebrate your success during your twice-daily surf sessions or 5 Day Learn To Surf Course.
To Improve your paddling technique with Kima Surf:
Join us at Kima Surf Camp in Bali or Sri Lanka to reach your maximum surfing potential with our experienced surf guides, land based training session and a global community of passionate surfers. We’ll help you get there, paddle by paddle.