A Deep Dive into Bodysurfing Competitions and Scoring

Bodysurfing, a sport as old as humanity itself, has evolved into a competitive discipline with a complex scoring system. This blog post will guide you through the intricacies of bodysurfing competitions and how they are judged, focusing on the International Bodysurfing Association's (IBSA) rules. By understanding these rules, you can strategise your heats to maximise your point scoring.

Understanding the Basics

Bodysurfing competitions are typically divided into heats, with each heat lasting 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, competitors aim to catch and ride as many waves as possible. However, only the best two waves are scored. The IBSA uses a 10-point scale to evaluate each wave, with judges considering various factors such as the size and difficulty of the wave, the length of the ride, and the competitor's manoeuvres and control.

Wave Selection: The Key to Success

Wave selection is crucial in bodysurfing competitions. The IBSA rules state that the size and difficulty of the wave contribute to the overall score. Therefore, competitors should aim to catch larger, more challenging waves. However, it's essential to balance this with your ability to successfully ride the wave. A failed attempt at a large wave will score lower than a well-executed ride on a smaller wave.

Riding the Wave: Style and Control

Once on the wave, the competitor's style and control come into play. Judges look for smooth, controlled rides where the competitor stays in the critical part of the wave. Manoeuvres such as spins, rolls, and barrel rides can increase the score, but only if they are executed with control and style. It's better to perform a few well-executed manoeuvres than many sloppy ones.

Length of the Ride: Making the Most of Each Wave

The length of the ride is another critical factor in scoring. The longer you can stay on the wave, the higher your score will be. Therefore, it's essential to maintain balance and control throughout the ride to maximise its length. However, remember that only the best two waves are scored, so it's crucial to choose your waves wisely and make each one count.

Interference and Penalties

Interference is a serious offence in bodysurfing competitions. If a competitor hinders another competitor's ability to catch or ride a wave, they may be penalised. The IBSA rules state that the competitor closest to the peak of the wave has the right of way. Therefore, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and respect other competitors.

Maximising Your Score: Strategies and Tips

Now that we understand how bodysurfing competitions are judged, let's look at some strategies to maximise your score.

1. Wave Selection: Choose your waves wisely. Aim for larger, more challenging waves, but ensure you can successfully ride them.

2. Control and Style: Practice your manoeuvres until you can execute them smoothly and with control. Remember, quality over quantity.

3. Length of Ride: Work on your balance and control to maximise the length of each ride. The longer you stay on the wave, the higher your score.

4. Avoid Interference: Be aware of your surroundings and respect the right of way to avoid penalties.

5. Practice: Like any sport, practice makes perfect. Spend time in the water, get to know different wave conditions, and continuously work on your skills.

Bodysurfing competitions are a test of skill, control, and strategy. By understanding the IBSA rules and how competitions are judged, you can develop a strategy to maximise your score. Remember, the key is to choose your waves wisely, execute your manoeuvres with style and control, and make each wave count. Happy bodysurfing!