How to Dropknee (DK) on a Bodyboard

Dropping a knee on a bodyboard, often referred to as "drop-knee" riding, is a popular style of bodyboarding that combines elements of stand-up surfing with traditional prone bodyboarding. It allows for more maneuverability and stylish turns on waves. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to drop knee on a bodyboard:
1. Start with the Right Equipment
Board: A drop-knee-friendly board is usually slightly larger and wider than standard prone boards, giving more stability.
Fins: Choose swim fins with a comfortable fit, as you’ll need them to paddle but also be able to control the board once you transition to a drop-knee position.
Wax the Board: Apply surf wax to the board’s deck for better grip, especially where your front and back foot will go.
2. Catch a Wave in Prone Position
Paddle into the wave using your swim fins to generate speed.
As the wave starts to catch you, maintain your momentum and focus on staying balanced in the prone position (laying on your stomach).
3. Shift into Drop Knee Position
Once you’ve caught the wave and are gliding:
Lift your upper body: Push up using your hands and core strength, creating space between your chest and the board.
Bring your back leg forward: The key to the drop knee stance is bringing one leg forward, with your knee on the board while the other leg stays back for balance.
Front foot placement: Your front foot should be on the outer rail (side edge) of the board. Keep it about halfway up the board, pointed slightly forward or to the side.
Back knee placement: Place your back knee near the center of the board, with your toes hanging off the tail of the board. Your back foot’s toes can help grip and control the board’s direction.
4. Balance and Ride
Once in the drop knee stance, keep your weight centered over the board. Lean forward slightly to maintain speed, but also be able to shift your weight back to adjust for turns.
Hand position: Use your back hand for balance and drag it in the water when needed to slow down or control the board. Your front hand should be on the rail, helping you guide the direction.
Keep your body low and compact to help with balance and control.
5. Making Turns and Maneuvers
Bottom turn: After dropping into the wave, lean into the rail to do a bottom turn. Use your front foot to guide the turn, and your back foot for added pressure to control the angle.
Top turns and cutbacks: These are more advanced maneuvers you can learn over time. By shifting your weight forward or backward and using your legs to carve the wave, you can ride along the face or even cut back toward the breaking part of the wave.
Tips for Success:
Practice on small waves: Start on smaller, slower-breaking waves to get comfortable with the drop knee stance.
Work on leg and core strength: Drop knee requires good balance and control, so strengthening your core and legs will help you hold the position longer.
Stay low: Keep your body compact and low to the board for better stability and control.
Mastering the drop knee technique will take time and practice, but with patience, you'll be able to ride waves with style and flow.
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