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How to paddle a surfboard

Paddling is most of surfing. Slide yourself along the board to find the position where it glides, then learn the stroke.

By SurfSpotGuide EditorialPublished March 27, 2026

Find your spot on the board

Nose on the right
Too far backToo far forward

Your position

Close to the sweet spot

Centred on the stringer with the nose just above the water. The board glides flat and takes the least effort to push.

Coaches disagree on the exact nose height. The sweet spot is the point where the board glides with the least resistance, so adjust by small amounts and feel for it.

The stroke, step by step

Tick off each step as you practise it.

  1. Find your position

    Lie face down, centred on the stringer, with your legs together and toes pointed. Slide forward or back until the nose sits just above the water.

  2. Arch your back

    Lift your chest with a gentle arch, a mild cobra pose. It keeps your head up and your weight steady. Look ahead, not down.

  3. Reach with a high elbow

    Reach one arm forward and enter the water fingertips first, with your hand slightly cupped and your elbow high.

  4. Pull long and deep

    Pull the whole arm back through the water, from out in front to past your hip. The power comes from your back and core, not just your shoulders.

  5. Alternate arms, legs together

    Switch arms in a smooth rhythm. Keep your legs together. Dangling or kicking legs add drag.

Arms alternate. Long stroke, from the front to past your hip

Common mistakes

Lying too far backThe tail drags and the nose rises. Slide forward until the nose sits just above the water.
Lying too far forwardThe nose digs in. Slide back a little.
Short, splashy strokesSlow down. Reach further and pull deeper rather than faster.
Head downLooking down drops your chest and sinks the nose. Keep your eyes forward.
Kicking or dangling legsKeep your legs together. Loose legs act like an anchor.
Hunched shouldersOpen your chest and arch your back slightly.

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Frequently asked questions

Why do my arms get tired so fast when paddling?

Paddling works muscles most people rarely train, mainly in the back, shoulders and arms. Poor position and short, splashy strokes make it worse, and fitness builds with regular sessions.

Should I use both arms at the same time?

No. Alternate your arms in a crawl-style stroke. Paddling both arms together is inefficient on a surfboard.

Where should I position myself on the board?

Lie centred on the stringer and slide forward or back until the nose sits just above the water. Too far back drags the tail, too far forward digs the nose in.

How do I paddle faster?

Use long, deep strokes with a high elbow and a full reach, rather than quick, short ones. Keep your chest up and your legs together.

Practise in the right conditions

A lesson gets you paddling efficiently from your first session.

Find surf lessons near you

More Surf Guides

Before your first wave, read this.

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