Surf Icons & Heroes

To link your turns like a legend, you need flow, not just random hacks at the lip. A powerful cutback starts with a solid bottom turn to generate speed and project you back toward the whitewater. Don’t just look at your board—rotate your head and shoulders to initiate the turn; your board will follow. The magic is in the rebound. As you complete the cutback, aim to hit the pocket of the wave with enough momentum to drive straight into your next bottom turn, setting you up for another section. Think of it as one continuous dance with the wave, not separate moves.

Stoked you asked! It’s everything. Pop-ups require explosive power, and paddling is 90% of the game. You need a strong back, shoulders, and core. Dryland training like swimming, push-ups, and yoga will massively boost your stamina and prevent injuries. You’ll paddle faster, catch more waves, and have the energy to actually rip when you’re on them. Think of it as cross-training for the ultimate stoke.

It’s about paddling out with full commitment and heart. Don’t just go through the motions; attack each section, go for that turn with everything you’ve got, and never mentally bail on a wave. Embrace the stoke and the frustration—surf with passion. Whether in a friendly heat or just trying to nail a new maneuver, that fiery, focused intensity is what AI brought every single time.

Paddling is a full-body symphony for Bethany. She uses a super powerful, deep single-arm stroke, synced with a constant, strong flutter kick from her legs. This combo creates the propulsion needed to match the wave’s speed. Positioning is everything—she angles her take-off perfectly to minimize the number of strokes needed. It’s a testament to her incredible fitness and wave knowledge, turning what seems impossible into a smooth, efficient glide into the green room.