At Peña Txuri Surf School, we understand that speed is the key to making the most of the waves and successfully executing maneuvers. Without speed, it’s challenging to connect sections, perform smooth turns, or fully enjoy each wave. That’s why today we want to explain the essential techniques for gaining speed in surfing, especially if you’re starting to realize how important it is to go fast before performing maneuvers.
The Importance of Speed in Surfing
Speed not only allows you to ride the wave smoothly but is also essential for executing advanced maneuvers such as turns, cutbacks, or even aerials. Without a good speed foundation, many of these techniques are simply not possible.
In our experience, learning to generate speed is one of the most important steps to progress as a surfer. And here, we explain how to achieve it with precision.
What is Pumping and Why is it Essential?
Pumping is the movement we perform to generate speed on a wave. It consists of moving from the bottom to the top of the wave and then descending with energy, making the most of the wave’s power.
This repeated movement allows you to:
- Increase your speed.
- Make the most of each wave section.
- Prepare to execute maneuvers with greater force and control.
In short, pumping is an essential technique that every surfer must master.
Three Steps to Generate Speed on a Wave
1. Start with Good Compression
The key to good pumping begins with correct body compression. This means bending your knees and lowering your center of gravity when you’re at the wave’s base.
Why is compression important?
- It prepares you to project upwards with greater energy.
- The more you compress, the more momentum you’ll have to reach the top of the wave.
Remember to maintain a balanced posture with your weight centered on the board.
2. Projection: The Secret of Rail-to-Rail Movement
When projecting your board to the top of the wave, it’s essential to work with the rails. This means your board should shift from one rail to the other, avoiding a flat position.
How to do it?
- If you are regular, start with the right rail while ascending, move to flat at the peak, and switch to the left rail while descending.
- If you are goofy, the movement is the same but in the opposite direction.
This constant rail-to-rail transition helps maximize the wave’s energy and maintain a continuous flow.
3. Use the Full Ramp of the Wave
To gain speed, you must use the entire slope of the wave. This means climbing to the highest point before descending again.
Why?
- The steeper the slope when descending, the more speed you’ll generate.
- This downward movement (drop) provides extra momentum to connect sections smoothly.
Remember to keep the board transitioning from rail to rail throughout the process to maximize your speed.
Tips to Improve Your Speed Technique
Here are some practical tips to refine your technique:
- Watch videos of advanced surfers: Observe how they work the rails and make the most of each wave section.
- Practice on smaller waves: These are often ideal for working on pumping and improving your flow.
- Strengthen your balance: Exercises like skating on a balance board can help you perfect rail control.
How We Teach It at Peña Txuri Surf School
At Peña Txuri Surf School, we focus on teaching our students not only the basics of surfing but also advanced techniques such as speed generation. Our technical director, Aritza Saratxaga, always emphasizes the importance of mastering compression and rail use to maximize performance on each wave.
Additionally, we use video recordings during our advanced classes so you can analyze your technique and improve with each session.
Generating speed on a wave is not just about technique but also about constant practice and commitment to learning. At Peña Txuri Surf School, we’re here to help you push your limits and enjoy surfing to the fullest.
🌊 See you in the water, ready to pick up more speed and enjoy every wave!
