I am normally in smaller waves, but when I turn at the top of the wave the best I can do is give one or two deep paddle-strokes to assist the turn and to provide extra power/speed back down the wave.

But when you see competent riders do it, they seem to plant the paddle and spin the board using the paddle as a lever. They often get a good spray going their board turns so fast.

I have tried, even on my small 7'10" minion, but I am obviously doing something wrong.

Are you supposed to plant the paddle and then use your legs to spin the board using the paddle as a lever? Is the board supposed to be at the perfect point on the wave to reduce the resistance to being spun?

What's the secret?