What are belly boards?
So, What Exactly Is Bellyboarding? A bellyboard is usually around 3 feet long with an elevated round nose and a flat tail. They can be made from a number of different materials including wood, fibreglass and foam. Boarders use the white water to ride into shore. Before you go bellyboarding, it’s important to know (and tell any children) that a bellyboard isn’t a flotation device. This is where it differs from a bodyboard or a boogie board which are designed to float. A bellyboard is much thinner and acts as a plaining surface to glide across the water.
How to use belly board?
Stand In thigh deep water Ideally you need to be in thigh deep water, this allows you to get a strong push off the bottom. Push the tail of the board into your hips, while holding the board as close to the nose as possible. You may have to stick your bum out a little! Not every bodyboard demands wax. Typically, those with sleek, glossy surfaces or boards featuring PE (Polyethylene) cores can use a bit of waxing for an extra grip.Bodyboarding has a much easier learning curve than surfing and is physically less demanding, partly because you’re prone instead of required to “pop up” into your surf stance and balance standing on a board on a moving wave.Do All Bodyboards Need Waxing? Not every bodyboard demands wax. Typically, those with sleek, glossy surfaces or boards featuring PE (Polyethylene) cores can use a bit of waxing for an extra grip. The addition of wax helps keep the rider securely in place, particularly in warmer water scenarios.The materials used to build bodyboards are cheaper than for surfboards and no waxing is required. Bodyboarding can be practiced by everyone, including children. Surfboards are much heavier than bodyboards, which makes them somewhat difficult to move.Keep in mind that bodyboards are smaller than surfboards, which make it easy to put your legs in the water. At the same time, you can grab onto the front of the bodyboard for stability (when you are not paddling). For those who are just learning, the bodyboarding position is much less intimidating.
Why wax a bodyboard?
Bodyboard wax increases grip, prevents slippage, and offers a more stable and controlled ride. Surfboard wax provides grip and traction, helping surfers keep their feet firmly planted on the board.If you don’t wax your snowboard regularly, the base of the board can become dry and damaged, reducing its glide and overall performance.
Do you need to wax a bellyboard?
It isn’t essential for wave riding but can help if you find yourself slipping when sliding! You only need to wax the topside of your board, where your belly lies. When it’s no longer sticky or grippy, just rub some more on. Stand In thigh deep water Ideally you need to be in thigh deep water, this allows you to get a strong push off the bottom. Push the tail of the board into your hips, while holding the board as close to the nose as possible. You may have to stick your bum out a little!Unlike surfing, it’s best to start off bellyboarding where you can stand. This allows you to push off the sand for even more fun! Place the tail of the board close to your hips and your hands as close to the nose as possible.