Standing in a way that lets the board go fast and lets you steer it. Most beginners stand too tall and too upright.
Trim is surfing along the face of the wave in balance, without turning, using the wave's own speed. It is the base for every turn.
Knees bent, back straight. Lower your centre of gravity so a bump does not throw you off.
Feet apart. About shoulder width, front foot at the middle of the board, back foot at the tail.
Weight on the front foot makes the board faster. Weight on the back foot slows it and lets it pivot.
Eyes and shoulders look where you want to go. Your body follows your head.
Arms loose and out front, not hanging or clasped.
Staying in the power
The fastest part of a wave is the steep part, just ahead of the breaking foam. If you stay far ahead you lose speed. If you fall behind you are in the foam. Moving your weight forward or back along the board moves you up and down the face.
Drills
On green wave rides, count to three at each of the three positions: high, mid and low on the face.
A balance board or a surfskate at home builds the same low stance and weight shifts.
A guide is not a coach. If you can, take a lesson or surf with someone better than you.