Balance: The Most Important Aspect of Surfing

Problem - How can we improve our balance for surfing?



The first thing we need to do is look at the cause of the problem – What makes balance such a challenge whilst surfing?



Once we’ve worked out the cause we can try to find a solution – How and what can be changed? Which variables can we manipulate?



What is balance?



Balance basically involves two main variables – the centre of mass and the base of support. The centre of mass is the term given for the middle point or centre of a body. Eg. The centre of the cube in figure 1 (red dot). This is the point at which forces (such as gravity) act on the body (blue line). The base of support is the area of contact underneath an object. Eg. The base of the cube (yellow area). If the centre of mass is over the base of support, then the object is stable or balanced. If the centre of mass is not over the base of support, and the line of force acting on the centre of mass (gravity in figures 1and 2) is landing outside the base of support, then the object will fall over. Think about when you’re standing still and you slowly lean forward. The point at which you lose balance and have to step forward is the point at which your centre of mass is no longer over your base of support (the area between your feet). The bigger the base of support, the easier it is to balance (eg standing on one leg or two legs) The closer the centre of mass is to the base of support, the easier it is to balance. (eg laying down on the board compared to standing).