- Goofy: Right foot in front of the board.
- Regular: Left foot in front of the board.
- Slide Test: Slide on a smooth surface to find your natural stance.
- Push Test: Have someone gently push you to see which foot steps forward.
- Stair Climbing: The foot that takes the first step is often the dominant foot.
- Majority: About 70-80% of riders are regular, 20-30% are goofy.
- Flexibility: Try both stances to find the most natural one.
- Technique: Stance affects tricks and riding style.
- Practice: Regular practice helps improve balance and control.
One of the most basic questions for beginners in surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding is: Are you Goofy or Regular footed? Which foot is in front? The answer is crucial for balance and control on the board. In this article, we explain how to find your preferred stance and provide helpful tips and examples.
Definition of Goofy and Regular
The term “Regular” describes a position where the left foot is in front of the board. “Goofy” means the right foot is in front. These terms apply to any board sport and refer only to the position of the feet on the board.
The origins of “Goofy” and “Regular”
The terms “Goofy” and “Regular” have interesting origins. “Goofy” comes from the 1937 cartoon “Hawaiian Holiday”, in which the Disney character Goofy surfs with his right foot forward. This was an unusual stance at the time and was named after the character. So don’t worry about the name goofy. It doesn’t mean you’re goofy. Famous skateboarders like Tony Hawk are a goofy. The term “regular” describes the more common left-foot-forward position
Why Stance Matters
Your stance affects your stability, control, and overall riding feel. A poor stance can limit your abilities and make learning more difficult. That’s why it’s important to find the most comfortable and natural stance for you.
How to Find Your Preferred Stance
The Push Test
The best way to know if you’re goofy footed or regular footed is if someone were to push you from behind, which foot would you brace yourself with? If it’s your right foot, then you’re are goofy footed. If it’s your left foot, you’re regular footed.
The Slide Test
Another method to determine your stance is the Slide Test. Find a smooth surface, such as a tile floor, on which you can safely slide. Slide forward and notice which foot naturally goes forward to maintain balance. This foot should also be in front on the board.
Stair climbing and balance
Notice which foot you use to climb stairs. The foot that takes the first step is often your dominant foot. Balancing on one foot can also provide clues. The foot that balances better is often the back foot on the board.
Examples and Testimonials
Many pros and experienced riders tell similar stories about their preferred stance. For example, famous surfer Kelly Slater initially struggled to find his stance, but eventually settled on a regular stance. Skateboarding legend Tony Hawk is also a Regular, while renowned snowboarder Shaun White rides Goofy.
Are most people Goofy or Regular?
The majority ride Regular. Statistics and observations show that about 70-80% of riders prefer the Regular stance, while only about 20-30% ride Goofy. This corresponds to the natural dominance of the left or right foot. Regular riders have the left foot in front, which feels more natural to most people, while the right foot, often the dominant and stronger foot, is in the back for stability and control.
What if both positions feel wrong?
It is not uncommon for neither stance to feel right at first. In such cases, it is helpful to try both stances for an extended period of time. Switch back and forth between Goofy and Regular regularly to get a feel for both. Over time, one position will feel more natural.
Impact of Stance on Technique
Your stance can also affect your technique and riding style. Goofy riders tend to approach tricks and moves from a different angle than regular riders. Knowing your natural stance can help you refine your technique and improve faster.
Practical Tips for Beginners
- Try both stances on a soft surface before moving to a hard surface.
- Observe other riders and try to mimic their stance and movements.
- Practice regularly to develop a sense of balance and control.
- Avoid getting too stuck in one stance; flexibility can be beneficial.
Whether goofy or regular, the right stance is crucial for success and enjoyment in surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding. Simple tests like the slide and push tests can help you determine your stance. Try both foot positions and take your time to develop your preference. There’s no right or wrong – it’s all about what feels best to you.
