As an intermediate surfer, the principle explained in this video had a major impact on my surfing!
As a surfer stuck at an intermediate level and with access to average quality (at best) waves, I’m always seeking ways to improve my technique.
This video introduces a concept that OMBE named the “coffee cup principle.” The idea is simple: imagine holding a coffee cup in your hand while you surf.
Former professional surfer and world-renowned surf coach Clayton Nienaber, with his 25+ years of experience, explains that holding an imaginary coffee cup helps you maintain a better posture.
This visualization can dramatically improve your balance and style on the board.
By keeping your hand up, your back stays straight, your joints align better, and your overall balance improves.
This technique also enhances your compression and extension, making your movements more fluid, stylish, and efficient.
Like many surfers, I had (and still often have) a habit of wiggling my upper body to gain speed. This approach is highly ineffective in surfing. The “coffee cup” principle helped me realize that my movements were counterproductive.
By focusing on holding the imaginary cup, I’m learning to stabilize my body better and maintain a more controlled stance.
Clayton also emphasizes that this technique improves peripheral vision and reduces stress and anxiety. By keeping a forward stance, you can see more of the wave and make better decisions.
This is especially helpful for regular footers like me, as it encourages using the opposite hand and foot, resulting in a more balanced and stylish ride.
In my surfing journey, incorporating the coffee cup principle has been a game-changer. It’s a simple yet effective way to improve balance, posture, and overall surfing style.
Give it a try and you’ll likely see immediate results just as I did. If you don’t have easy access to waves, practicing on a surfskate in a pool can also work.
The confined space and the need for precise movements to gain and maintain speed help you grasp how to keep the imaginary coffee cup steady. That translates well into actual surfing.
If you’re interested in taking your surfing to the next level, you can check out my super in-depth post about OMBE’s method and training -which you can tell I’m a big fan of.