Duck Dive

Term from Surfing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

A Duck Dive is an essential surfing technique that allows surfers to move through oncoming waves instead of going over them. This skill is crucial for getting past the breaking waves to reach the surfing area. When instructors mention this on their resume, it shows they can both perform and teach this fundamental surfing skill. It's similar to other water navigation techniques like turtle rolling or eskimo rolling in kayaking. Understanding this term shows the instructor knows how to teach students to efficiently move through waves while keeping their surfboard with them.

Examples in Resumes

Developed specialized training program for teaching Duck Dive techniques to beginner surfers

Certified instructor with 5+ years experience teaching Duck Dive and other fundamental surfing skills

Created safety-focused Duck Diving tutorials for groups of up to 10 students

Typical job title: "Surf Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Surfing Coach Water Sports Instructor Surf School Instructor Ocean Safety Instructor Aquatics Instructor Water Sports Coach

Where to Find Surf Instructors

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you adapt duck diving techniques for different surfboard sizes and student abilities?

Expected Answer: A senior instructor should explain how teaching methods vary based on board type (shortboard vs longboard) and student strength/experience, with specific examples of modifications for different scenarios.

Q: What safety protocols do you implement when teaching duck diving to a group?

Expected Answer: Should discuss student-to-instructor ratios, water condition assessment, emergency procedures, and how to maintain visual contact with all students while teaching this technique.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the most common mistakes students make when learning to duck dive?

Expected Answer: Should identify typical beginner errors like incorrect timing, poor board control, and insufficient depth, along with specific correction techniques.

Q: How do you break down the duck dive technique for new learners?

Expected Answer: Should explain their step-by-step teaching method, including land practice, shallow water practice, and progression to actual waves.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you demonstrate and explain the basic steps of a duck dive?

Expected Answer: Should be able to clearly explain and show the fundamental movements: pushing the board down, following with the body, and resurfacing safely.

Q: What water conditions are ideal for teaching duck diving to beginners?

Expected Answer: Should understand basic safety considerations like wave size, water depth, and current conditions suitable for teaching beginners.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic duck diving demonstration ability
  • Understanding of fundamental safety protocols
  • Basic teaching communication skills
  • Knowledge of proper equipment use

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced duck diving techniques
  • Group instruction experience
  • Ability to modify teaching for different skill levels
  • Emergency response certification

Senior (5+ years)

  • Expert-level instruction techniques
  • Curriculum development
  • Staff training and supervision
  • Risk management expertise

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to demonstrate proper duck diving technique
  • Lack of water safety certification
  • No experience teaching beginners
  • Poor communication skills
  • Insufficient knowledge of ocean conditions and safety