Side-surf (hole riding) - On a pour-over or hole, a foam
pile rises which can be surfed with the boat perpendicular to
the flow of water. Hole riding is the cornerstone for freestyle
moves like cartwheeling but it is also fun in itself. The key
here is to relax and stay loose at the hips while maintaining
a downstream lean, by raising the upstream knee. If you can find
your balance point, try taking your paddle out of the water. By
achieving good balance when side-surfing, you will be free (because
you are not leaning on your paddle) to get set up for your next
move. Also, you may see people side surfing with a high brace
but this is not recommended. Not only do you have a higher risk
of shoulder injury if you suddenly get power flipped, but you
raise your centre of gravity higher off the water which decrease
your balance.
