Would you like to add a game-changing move to your bodyboarding repertoire? Look no further than the through-the-lip roll. The ultimate get-out-of-jail card in bodyboarding. This super-functional manoeuvre not only looks impressive but also comes in handy when you need to navigate through a closeout section when the lip pitches early and you have to puncture through the roof of the barrel. The real benefit of the through the lip roll comes when you are tube riding. If the barrel outruns you or you can’t make it out of the exit as it closes out, you can roll through the lip to allow you to escape in a functional, stylish manner.
Why Master the Through-the-Lip Roll?
The through-the-lip roll is more than just a flashy trick; it’s a strategic move that can elevate your performance, whether you’re riding for fun or competing. By mastering this manoeuvre, you’ll have the skills to handle challenging wave conditions and score big in competitions. Getting to grips with the through the lip roll will build your confidence with lip moves in general. If you arrive late to an air section you don’t need to abandon the move, you can simply pivot and bust a through the lip roll instead. This means that you never need to waste a bowl section. The through the lip roll is also a great way to navigate a section that is breaking quickly that you don’t think you’d be able to make it past. Instead of getting caught behind it, you can roll through it. This is not only great fun, it’s the difference between an average bodyboard and a really progressive rider.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Wave Selection
In the perfect world you will choose a wave with a barrel or a pitching lip – essential for executing the through-the-lip roll effectively. However, the through the lip roll is a move that can be used in most conditions. Even if the waves are small and crumbling this move can be practised. Waves from 1 foot to 10 foot can be used for this move and the bigger the wave, the more ballsy your approach needs to be. Yet the more stunning the result.
Step 2: Positioning
In the perfect scenario, as you take off, position yourself for success. Pull into the barrel, scan ahead for potential closeout sections, and prepare for your approach to the lip. Stay high on the wave face, maintaining control and momentum. But many times you will be riding across a wave, be planning to do a re entry, an air roll or even an aerial, but when you arrive at the lip you are a little late. It is then that a through the lip roll is the move of choice.
Step 3: Hitting the Lip
Maintain a tight grip on your board and initiate a bottom turn towards the lip. Angle your bodyboard upward and, as you connect with the lip, execute an aggressive head throw to force the rotation through the lip. Channel your aggression by gritting your teeth, ensuring a powerful and controlled manoeuvre. It’s essential to get the nose of your board pointing towards the beach as quickly as possible, you will land in the ‘V’. The section where the lip hits the trough of the wave, so it’s important to hold on tight, get your board flat and try to get forward momentum as quickly as possible.
Step 4: Landing
After piercing through the lip, quickly shift your weight and point the nose of your bodyboard towards the shore. Let the wave’s momentum guide you towards the beach, setting yourself up for a smooth landing. If the wave is small you may need some added propulsion, so be sure to kick towards the beach to make it happen.
Step 5: Finish Strong
Maintain control as you land, keeping the nose of your board pointed towards the beach. Hold on tight and regain a trim position to continue riding the wave and prepare for your next move. The sooner that you can get your weight back on the inside rail, make the claw grip happen, arch your back and lunge back down the line, then any further sections can be ridden by you.
Take a punt!!
The through the lip roll is a super fun and rewarding move, we’d love to hear how you get on with it and whether this video and blog post are useful, please let us know in the comments below.
Take your riding to the next level
Would you like to finesse the through the lip roll or other moves we can help! Not only do we hold awesome UK bodyboard coaching weekends, we are the only multi destination Bodyboard Holiday provider in the world. For over two decades we have delivered our bodyboard escapes to some of the best bodyboarding locations in the world, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Morocco, Portugal, Indonesia plus a whole lot more. Head to our website and find out more – your bodyboarding adventure of a lifetime starts here!
