How to Pop-Up- Proper pop-up Technique

Here are some key tips to nail your pop-up from prone to standing:

• Hand Placement: Keep your hands flat on the board, roughly level with your lower ribs, fingers pointing forward.
• Chest Lift: As the wave lifts you, press your chest up in one smooth, explosive push-up motion.
• Foot Swing: Tuck your back foot up under your knee and then swing it forward in one quick motion between your hands.
• Front Foot Step: Land your front foot just behind your hands, aiming for shoulder-width stance.
• Low Center of Gravity: Bend both knees immediately to absorb the wave’s energy and maintain balance.Eyes Forward: Keep your head up and eyes looking toward the shore or where you want to ride; your body will follow your gaze.
• Core Engagement: Brace your core throughout—this keeps the board stable and helps the pop-up feel smoother.
• Land Drills: Practice on dry sand or carpet: lie down, pop up, then paddle back—repeat until it feels natural.

Start slow, focus on form, and gradually increase speed as your muscle memory builds.