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How to boogie board safely for beginners?

Jacob Siegel
Swim Instructor
Jacob Siegel is a Swim Instructor and the Founder of Superhero Swim Academy. Since 2018, Superhero Swim Academy has been a place for parents seeking comprehensive, compassionate, and quality swim instruction for their children. Jacob and his team offer both private and group lessons, as well as online video courses for those who want to learn at a distance. Their social profiles on YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok have become the largest online resource hub for free, accessible information on teaching children to swim. Jacob is a Certified Lifeguard, Swim Instructor, and Scuba Diver, and has been featured in various publications, including the Epoch Times, ESPN, and Lad Bible. He also specifically has experience working with young and special needs children.

Jacob Siegel

Swim Instructor

Expert Answer

To boogie board safely, first, ensure there is a lifeguard present for added safety. Additionally, check the area for any potential hazards, such as rocks or debris in the water. Swim out to where waves are breaking and aim to catch a wave at the opportune moment. As the wave approaches, swim towards the shore, aligning yourself to catch it. Once caught, ride the wave back towards shore, mirroring the technique used on a surfboard.

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Question

I bought a boogie board and it's too small. Will it still be easy to actually catch waves?

Community Answer

It will be easier than with an actual surfboard, but not as easy as it would be with a boogie board that's the right size for you. You're probably going to have trouble staying on it too, which surf wax could help with. Still, you'd have a much easier time with a board that's the right size.

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Question

What will happen if the waves are bigger than 1-2 feet?

Community Answer

Nothing really, you will just go further towards the shore.

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Question

Can I stand on a boogie board?

Community Answer

No, the boogie boards are not meant for standing. They cannot support a lot of weight in one area, which is why you lay out flat on them.

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Question

How deep should the water be to boogie board?

Community Answer

If you're a beginner, going in up to your belly button should be enough. However, there are exceptions, such as if you're more experienced in body boarding. Every case is different, so you decide what feels safe.

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Question

Do I have to swim with a strap?

Community Answer

It is always best to use a boogie board with a strap. If you fall off, the board will be there for you to get another wave without having to chase it, and the board is a flotation aid which is always helpful to have near.

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Question

Where can I purchase a good, strong boogie board?

Community Answer

Most surf shops sell boogie boards, or some sports shops that sell swimwear will sell them too.

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Question

Is it hard to boogie board?

Community Answer

No. People of all ages ride boogie boards. Just don't go out in 5 feet waves if you're just starting out, check the surf forecast before getting in the water.

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Question

Should I push the board under the wave when paddling out?

Community Answer

No. The wave would push you out further. Try hopping over the wave and riding the crest. If that doesn't work for you, just hold your board in the air and wait.

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Question

Can I sit on a boogie board while riding?

Community Answer

You can try, but they are not easy to sit on like a surfboard.

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Question

Do triple or quad fin set ups help a boogie board?

Community Answer

Generally boogie boards do not have fins. Instead they have channels which help keep the board steady along the face of the wave.

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Question

Which side of the boogie board faces up -- the slick side or textured side?

Community Answer

The textured side faces up. The slick side makes it easy to slide on the sand, whereas the other side would slow you down. You can usually tell which side is up, since the board is curved upwards.

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Question

Should I paddle out or can I walk?

Community Answer

Either way is fine. Most people run out and paddle when it gets hard to run.

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Question

Can we boogie board in pools or just at beaches?

Community Answer

You really need waves to successfully boogie board. Otherwise you're basically just laying on the board in a pool. Some water parks have wave pools, though.

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Question

What type of slang should I use to fit in with the other boogie boarders?

Community Answer

You should most definitely stick with modern street slang and even the stereotypical "surfer dude" slang! Using words like "gnarly", "totally tubular" and phrases such as "right on, dude!". Will help you fit right on in with the rest of the boogie board crowd.

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Question

Are shark attacks something to worry about?

Community Answer

Unless you are swimming in an area that's heavily infested with sharks, then it's not something you really need to worry about.

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Question

If I attach the board to my arm, won't that make it difficult to paddle easily?

Community Answer

Usually your string is long enough for you to paddle; if not, you can always buy a new one at a local pool or surf shop.

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Question

Do I have to know how to swim before I can boogie board?

Community Answer

You don't necessarily have to know how to swim, but it would certainly be easier and safer if you did.

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Question

Is it possible to use a boogie board without fins if I am a beginner?

Community Answer

Yes, it's definitely possible.

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Question

Do I have to do a cut back?

Community Answer

No, you don't have to, but it might be useful.

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Question

How expensive are good boogie boards?

Community Answer

It depends on where you purchase them, but you could get a really good boogie board for between $80 and $150.

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Question

I bought a boogie board and the strap is curly, does that make it any less safe?

Community Answer

No, it doesn't. A curly strap keeps it from getting tangled, and will stretch out if needed.

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Question

Do a lot of beach shops have boogie board wax?

Community Answer

Not usually. Look online before going to the beach to see if a shop near you carries it.

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Question

In deeper waters, how would you recommend getting out of the undertow after wiping out?

Community Answer

You should avoid swimming near the undertow, as it is extremely dangerous. Choose a calmer spot to boogie board to avoid injury.

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Question

Can I still boogie board without swimming fins?

Community Answer

Yes, you can do this, it is just a little harder to steer and keep in control.

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Question

How long does it take to learn to boogie board?

Community Answer

It really depends on how much you try. Don’t push yourself too much, although it’s not really that hard, if you spend a whole day at the beach, try just simply going to the water and doing what suits you. Go into the water till it reaches your upper thighs to your hips and wait for a good wave to come a good distance away. Then wade forward a little and wait for the wave to come while lying down, stomach face down on your board, with your feet in the water and the rest of your body on the board. When the wave comes, scoot up and let the wave do it’s thing. When you start off ,stay closer to the shore though.

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