The more I try pump-foiling, the more I realize my foot placement could probably use some fine tuning.
My foot placement is relative to the centerline of the board, specifically the longitudinal axis that is also the board's only axis of symmetry.
For wing-foiling, my front foot stays relatively fixed longitudinally, but can shift transversely windward from centerline. My rear foot varies +/- 1 foot longitudinally and also shifts transversely from centerline to leeward.
Meanwhile for pump-foiling, I've learned the hard way that both feet need to be closer to, if not precisely 50-50 overlapping, the centerline and this has impeded my ability to steer.
What are best practices for foot placement when pump-foiling?
(Which foot does the majority of the steering? How and when do you reposition your feet?)
Thought it would be cool to hear opinions here
Thanks
Lots of variables. Where ones point of efficiency vs. balance is etc. Without footsraps; More staggered stance for me winging and prone, then bring both feet inward both closer to each other and to centerline for longer distance pumping. The harder you turn, the less you'll be able to pump, and you'll create drag, so just find the most comfortable foot position and try to relax and glide with minimal input to the axis not providing propulsion.
@Hwy1North: Thanks for your comments about your stance and its variations in different disciplines. Your points are well taken: 1. about bringing feet closer and more central, and 2. turning vs. long-distance pumping (or simply pumping to stay on foil in a lull).
Most of my practice is with my wing de-powered, so I can usually cheat and save myself, and this has made learning more forgiving but slower.
I've realized that, for steering when pumping, both of my feet (mostly rear foot) can traverse somewhat laterally, although not as much as when winging. As long as I maintain some overlap with the centerline with either my toes or heal depending on the foot and turning direction, I am still able to pump directly over the centerline by pushing from that part of my foot.
I just had a mind-blowing time in light wind conditions today. With a new focus on only pumping directly over the centerline of the board, pumping is becoming an integral part of my technique, greatly extending my reach in these conditions.
For example, through the exit sequence of my jibes. At a certain point going fast downwind in my jibe, the wing has little power and so the extra speed and height gained from pumping, over the centerline, hopping my rear foot forward at the same time, provides a reliable impulse to continue gliding through the turn.
I also discovered that I could incorporate a slow pumping cadence - again along the centerline - when my foil is fully leveraged and I am charging upwind. The additional power from pumping would increase my angle of attack and overall speed.
It feels amazing to finally start to harness this new source of power ;)
