LOW FINISH DRILL


AIM: 

To teach surfers the skill of finishing their rides with a low/crouched stance.


PREPARATION: 

Explain the importance of finishing a wave with a successful finishing manoeuvre. Demonstrate the correct low stance that is required for consistent quality finishes. Have the surfers simulate this stance on the beach.


DRILL: 

  • Send the surfers out into the surf for 20 minutes or for a specific number of waves (between 3-6, depending on the conditions). 
  • Ask them to surf each wave normally. 
  • When they perform their final manoeuvre, they must complete the manoeuvre with a crouched stance over the centre of the surfboard. 
  • It helps the surfer achieve this action if they say in their mind a word that means a low stance as they perform this action. 
  • Words that can be used include: low, squat, crouch, bend, centre, or stick, among others.

NOTES TO THE COACH: 

This drill is used for the surfer who has trouble finishing their waves successfully. They either have a straight up and down stance or have problems centring.

The words that act as reminders are called “task relevant words” and have the effect of the surfer telling the body what to do (“get low”),rather than the well learned but incorrect motor pattern directing the surfers movements.

** The perfect body position is one where the surfer crouches low, chest over front knee **

 Mark lesson complete