The ocean has a magic to it, we are all aware of it — its vastness, its rhythm, and its raw beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer, just beginning to explore water sports, we can’t deny the ocean has got an allure to it. There are so many epic ways to get in the water and live our best surf lives, not just on a surfboard. One of the best and most accessible ways to experience ocean magic is bodyboarding!
Bodyboarding offers a unique and thrilling experience, giving you the chance to ride the waves in a different way. If you’ve ever thought about giving it a try, here’s why you, my fellow water-women, need to get into bodyboarding!
1. Get in the Water and Build Confidence!
Whether you are a seasoned pro, or just starting your water sports journey, one of the best things about bodyboarding is how it helps you build confidence in the water. Since you’re on a smaller, more manoeuvrable board than a surfboard, it’s easier to get used to the experience of larger waves without the challenge of balancing on or manoeuvring a bigger board.
The low-pressure nature of bodyboarding means you can spend more time in the water, feeling the waves, understanding their patterns, and improving your connection with the ocean. As you practice, you’ll gain confidence in your ability to paddle, catch waves, and ride them to shore, all while getting fitter and stronger.
“So many laughs and I came away with so much more water confidence and achieved my ambition of getting out in the green stuff” – Margaret H., Women+Waves Bodyboarding Weekend May 2024.
2. Low Learning Curve…
Bodyboarding is super beginner-friendly, as it has a low learning curve; meaning you’ll quickly pick up on wave timing and paddling, and before you know it, you’ll be riding waves all the way to shore!
When you’re ready, you can then progress into more technical skills at your own pace. As you gain experience, you’ll start to refine your wave technique, ride bigger waves, and learn more advanced moves—all while continuing to have fun in the process!
At our Bodyboard Retreats and Weekends, we meet you exactly where you are on your bodyboarding journey, offering personalised coaching to help you elevate your skills. Whether you’re after a focused 2-day programme or a more immersive 7-day experience, we tailor each session to your goals. The more time you spend with us, the bigger the leaps you’ll make in mastering your bodyboarding technique!
3. It’s cheaper than surfing!
Let’s be honest—surf gear can be pricey, and not everyone wants to commit to a large surfboard, especially if you’re just starting out. That’s where bodyboarding shines. The equipment is much more affordable, making it a budget-friendly way to get out into the waves!
Bodyboards are also lightweight and portable, meaning you don’t need a car rack or huge amounts of storage space to bring your board along. Plus, with a lower risk of dings and damages, you won’t stress about protecting your equipment as you would with a surfboard. It’s an accessible and cost-effective way to enjoy the waves without the financial commitment that comes with surfing.
On our trips and weekends, you can rent all the gear you need, allowing you to test it out before you buy your own! We provide high-quality, professional bodyboards, so you’ll get a taste of the real experience – forget the flimsy, fabric-covered polystyrene boards from the supermarket—this is proper bodyboarding! We have some great relationships with UK and international bodyboarding shops and will share with you exclusive discount codes on your trip with us!
4. Super Accessible…
Bodyboarding is an incredibly accessible sport for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re 7 or 75, a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner, it’s a fantastic sport for everyone to try! It’s also suitable for all body types and fitness levels! One of the biggest advantages of bodyboarding is that, unlike surfing where handling larger, heavier boards can be tiring, bodyboarding is much more manageable.
With its gentle learning curve, bodyboarding is easy to pick up, allowing you to start catching waves quickly, regardless of your experience level!
The beauty of bodyboarding further lies in its versatility. Depending on the swell and your confidence, you can enjoy smaller, more relaxed waves as you learn or challenge yourself with bigger, more powerful waves as your skills grow. This flexibility ensures that no matter the conditions, there’s always an opportunity to get out and enjoy the surf at your own pace!
5. It’s So Much Fun!
At the heart of bodyboarding is the sheer fun of catching waves. Whether you’re flying down the face of a wave or simply riding to shore, the rush of catching a wave is something truly special. The feeling of gliding on water, the connection with and proximity to the ocean, partnered with the excitement of riding a wave, is something every water lover should experience.
But bodyboarding isn’t just about the thrill—it’s also about community. When you join our Bodyboarding Programmes at Women+Waves, you’ll find a welcoming group of like-minded women who share your love for the water. It’s a chance to meet new people, share tips, laugh, and bond over your shared passion for the sea. And whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, you’ll walk away with new friends and lasting memories!
“Such a good-for-the-soul weekend with women and waves. Lots of belly laughs. What a tonic!”, Sally H, Bodyboard Coaching Weekend, November 2024.
So, what are you waiting for?!
If you’re looking to get in the water, build confidence, and enjoy the thrill of the waves, bodyboarding is the perfect choice. Join us for a weekend or week-long bodyboarding adventure and discover why this sport is so epic!
Ready to dive in? Join us and start bodyboarding today!
Explore Women’s Bodyboarding Weekends
Explore Women’s Bodyboard Retreats
