Board Control

Term from Surfing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

Board Control refers to a fundamental skill in surfing that involves a person's ability to maneuver and direct a surfboard effectively in various water conditions. It's similar to how a driver needs to control a car – but on waves. This skill includes maintaining balance, steering the board, and making smooth transitions during different surfing moves. When surfing instructors mention "board control" in their experience, they're talking about both their personal mastery of these skills and their ability to teach them to others. You might also see this referred to as "board handling" or "surfboard mastery."

Examples in Resumes

Taught Board Control techniques to beginner and intermediate surfers

Developed specialized Board Control training programs for children aged 8-14

Led advanced Board Control workshops for experienced surfers

Typical job title: "Surf Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Surfing Coach Water Sports Instructor Surf School Instructor Ocean Sports Instructor Surf mentor Surfing Teacher

Example Interview Questions

Advanced Level Questions

Q: How would you design a progressive board control curriculum for a surf school?

Expected Answer: An experienced instructor should discuss creating structured lessons that build from basics to advanced techniques, adapting to different skill levels, and incorporating safety measures throughout the program.

Q: What methods do you use to teach board control in challenging conditions?

Expected Answer: Should explain strategies for teaching in different wave conditions, assessment of student readiness, and specific techniques for maintaining control in larger surf.

Intermediate Level Questions

Q: How do you adjust your board control teaching methods for different age groups?

Expected Answer: Should discuss different teaching approaches for children, teens, and adults, including appropriate communication styles and safety considerations for each group.

Q: What are your strategies for correcting common board control mistakes?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify typical beginner mistakes, explain correction techniques, and discuss how to provide constructive feedback.

Entry Level Questions

Q: What are the basic elements of board control you teach to beginners?

Expected Answer: Should cover fundamental aspects like paddle position, pop-up technique, and basic steering, demonstrating understanding of beginner-level instruction.

Q: How do you ensure safety while teaching basic board control?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic safety protocols, including checking equipment, assessing conditions, and maintaining proper distance between students.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic surfing techniques
  • Teaching fundamentals to beginners
  • Basic water safety knowledge
  • Understanding of surfing equipment

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced teaching techniques
  • Group class management
  • Intermediate surfing skills
  • Emergency response procedures

Senior (5+ years)

  • Program development
  • Advanced surfing expertise
  • Instructor training ability
  • Risk management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal surf instruction certification
  • Lack of water safety knowledge
  • Poor communication skills
  • No experience teaching different skill levels
  • Missing first aid/CPR certification