Wing Foiling, SUP and Surf Advanced Technique
An introduction to River SUP
Having covered the “mainstream” (no pun’s intended) flat water, surf and downwind paddling disciplines we feel it is certainly appropriate to ramp up the ante somewhat and introduce SUP river paddling. Consider it the “downhill” mountain biking version of stand up paddling as opposed to cross-country riding - with all the relative obstacles, challenges and body protection being duly warranted....
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Pumping
We’re going to delve into the world of pumping as a means to get up on the foil for this issue. If you’re happily flying around, you will perhaps notice that you need considerably less power in your wing once you’re up than you do to get up. Effectively, this can mean that you’re on a bigger wing than required!...
Race Gybe
It’s definitely time to have a look at the Race Gybe. We’ve had a few questions concerning the difference between this power dumping speedster and the good old duck gybe. Funnily enough, unbeknown to many wingers, their duck gybe may well in fact be a race gybe as they can look extremely similar when done smoothly. At the end of...
Urdhva Mukha Svanasana / Upward Facing dog
Low to gravity, upward facing dog is a stable posture to practice on a SUP. It opens the back and stretches the front of the body which feels amazing especially when you take big deep breaths in. Press both hands evenly onto the board and imagine lifting up and out of the chest rather than simply leaning backwards. Depending on...
Mandukasana - Frog Pose - Beginner
This luscious hip opener is perfect for beginners as its low gravity on the board and very stable. Start by straddling the board positioning yourself over the centre of the board, generally where the handle is located. Slowly extend your arms forward walking your fingertips towards the nose of the board. Your hip flexibility will determine how deep you can...
Hanumanasana/ Splits pose
This is well and truly an advanced Yoga posture, so don’t attempt this if you have tight hamstrings, hips or any injury to the pelvis, knees or ankles. Begin in a low lunge with the right leg forward making sure you are central over the handle/middle of the board. Pressing the palms into the board, slide the right foot forward...
First Foiling Foot Switch, Heel to Toe
As the title suggests, this is intended as your very first foiling foot change. We say this as there are a myriad of methods and possibilities, both simple and more advanced. However, we rate this technique and order as one of the simplest and most useful which will stand you in good stead. We’re assuming that you have already changed...