It's an essencial technique to any surfer, but it isn't easy to master and it requires a LOT of training. What is duck diving and how is it done?

Well, duck diving is a useful surfing technique in which the surfer dives under and oncoming wave as he/she paddles out to the lineup. This movement ensures that the progresso made by swimming and paddling out is not lost by being washed by the wave. Despite being a really helpful move, duck diving is quite dificult to learn and master.

Here’s four basic steps that sumarize the technique so you can start practicing:

1 – Paddle hard through the wave with speed and momentum (by doing so you’re actually increasing your chances of success with the move);

2 – When the wave is near (like 5 to 6 meters), take a deep breath, hold the rails of the board and push down, sinking the nose of the board underwater – keep your arms straight e use your bodyweight to help the movement;

3 – Lay flat on your board and as the wave hits, push down the tail of your board with your foot pushing it underwater as well;

4 – After the quick dive, angle your board back up to the surfasse and you can resume paddling out.