Catching Waves and Building Community: The Story Behind BS Bodyboarding School
When many people think of bodyboarding, they imagine $10 foam boards from a grocery store and toddlers playing in the shorebreak. But for those who know the sport, bodyboarding is an intense, high-flying discipline capable of spectacular aerial maneuvers like backflips, 360s, and spins off wave crests.
Jonatas Santos and Kamal Agzaou joined CBC Mainstreet in Studio to share how they are changing perceptions and building a thriving ocean culture right here in Nova Scotia through BS Bodyboarding School, the first dedicated bodyboarding school in the province (and likely all of Canada).
From International Waves to Nova Scotia Shores
Both Jonatas and Kamal come from countries where bodyboarding is a major athletic passion. In Brazil and Morocco, bodyboarding is one of the most popular coastal sports.
While surfing has seen massive growth in Nova Scotia, bodyboarding remained largely overlooked as a serious discipline. When Jonatas and Kamal met out in the water, their shared love for the sport sparked an immediate connection. Recognizing the local potential, they decided to join forces and share that passion with the community.
Starting with just two boards in Lawrencetown during their initial launch, the school has grown to include a full line of proper boards and swim fins, offering structured lessons for all ages, from university students to older ocean enthusiasts.
Why Bodyboarding?
Bodyboarding offers an accessible yet deeply rewarding way to connect with the ocean:
More Than Just Standing Up: Unlike traditional surfing, bodyboarding allows riders to perform high-energy, motocross-style aerials and rapid directional turns.
Mind and Body Benefits: Beyond the physical conditioning, being in the ocean provides mental relaxation, stress relief, and a place to build lifelong friendships.
Inclusivity: It offers a friendly learning curve for beginners while providing endless technical progression for advanced athletes.
From Pool Training to International Representation
The vision for BS Bodyboarding School extends far beyond summer beginner classes. Jonatas and Kamal are building a multi-season pathway to develop the sport across Canada:
Winter Pool Technical Training: During the colder months, technical skills like duck diving (submerging under breaking waves to reach the lineup) and proper swim fin technique are taught in local swimming pools.
Local Competitions: Establishing regional events to foster friendly competition among youth and local riders.
Representing Canada: The ultimate goal is to nurture a new generation of Canadian bodyboarders who can compete on the international stage, where Canada has historically lacked representation.
How to Get Involved
Whether you are looking to catch your very first wave, refine your position on the peak, or master aerial maneuvers, BS Bodyboarding School offers lessons throughout the season, running through October.
What's Offered: Private lessons, small group sessions, gear bookings, and seasonal schedules.
Check out the full audio interview attached above to hear the conversation!
Have you ever tried bodyboarding in Nova Scotia, or are you looking to head out into the surf for the first time this season?
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