How to Skimboard

chefjancris on Flickr

Skimboarding originated on California's beaches more than 60 years ago. Skimboarders use a board, which looks like a downsized surfboard, and take off from the shore directly onto an incoming wave, rather than swimming out and waiting like surfers do. Some people even use four-wheelers or other motorized vehicles to go a long ways on one run.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Skimboard Wetsuit (optional)
Skimboard
Wetsuit (optional)

Step 1

Find a flat, sandy beach for long, gentle rides, or choose a steep beach for speed and quickness on your rides.
Hold the board with both hands, one in the middle of the board and one along an edge.

Step 2

Wait for a wave to come in with the board to your side.

Step 3

Run towards the wave at a diagonal angle when you find one coming in. You want to time it so that you hit the water right as it spreads up onto the beach.

Step 4

Throw the board onto the water when it is about three inches deep. The board will skim along the surface.

Step 5

Jump onto the board facing sideways. You should have one foot on the front end and one on the back with your toes pointed to the side. Your form will resemble the riding style used to ride a skateboard.

Step 6

Lean slightly forward to move along the water surface. With time, you will get better at balancing and staying on the board longer.

Article Written By Jonathan Croswell

Jonathan Croswell has spent more than five years writing and editing for a number of newspapers and online publications, including the "Omaha World-Herald" and "New York Newsday." Croswell received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Nebraska and is currently pursuing a Master's of Health and Exercise Science at Portland State University.

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