Learning how to surf
Surfing is definitely one of the most complex sports out there, no wave is the same so the playground is always changing.
Elements, such as wind, tides and swell are affecting the waves you surf every day.
Although the process of being a good surfer may take some time it can be one of the most pleasurable experiences of your life.
Surf the surf – the Do’s of surfing
- Surfing the proper surfboard can make the difference from catching a lot of waves or almost none.
Having the best newest board to start surfing might not be the best option, as what you can look for the best is a board with the right volume.
A high volume surfboard can help by being board with much more flotation. Choose longboards or funboards.
Boards that are long, wide, thick and have a flat surface will be a better suit for learning how to stand up in them.
2. A basic thing to do before you get into the water to surf is knowing how to swim.
You have to be able to swim without the surfboard and feel comfortable enough.
If you find yourself in a spot where you don’t feel comfortable swimming, it’s not a good idea to surf at that spot.
Search for one that is more suitable for you.
3. Paddle technique is so important when it comes to surfing.
Although paddling can seem simple there are some crucial elements to understand that will help you out with your performance.
4. Do practice your take-off technique till extension outside the water, so it becomes a reflex once you catch a wave.
5. Choosing the right spot to surf is basic to learn how to surf.
Sometimes as a beginner you might think that because the bottom is with sand, it’s better for learning and that rocky or coral reef bottoms are for a more advanced surfer.
All we can say is that it always depends on the spot and the break.
If you want to know if a spot is good for your level, you must not only look up the spot but also find the daily wave conditions.
There are many ways you can know where is a good spot or with good conditions that are right for you.
You can ask experienced friends, talk to the locals or check online on websites like surfline.com or wannasurf.com
6. When you wipe out and fall from the surfboard, try to jump as far from your board and protect your head.
7. Keep a good distance with other surfers in the water as it a very common cause of injuries while learning how to surf
8. Learn how to stay in control of your surfboard in the water. As you walk into the ocean, hold the surfboard by its nose and keep it perpendicular to the waves.
This will prevent your surfboard from bouncing back at you when the waves come towards you.
The best way to learn to be on control of your surfboard is to learn the push-through technique and the turtle roll technique.
The Don’ts of surfing
- Going out in the water as a beginner with a small board or with no fins is a no go.
In the case of the small surfboard, it’s mostly because it will make your learning experience a lot harder than it could
be, please let us guide you and give you the board that suits you the best according to your height and weight.
2. Beginners should not be surfing in big waves, as it makes the learning process very hard.
3. Be careful of not to get in the way of surfers riding the wave.
To avoid the situation of getting caught up in a surf accident, its good if you swim in another area or duck dive.
Going to the white water or foam is much better than being in the impact zone.
4. Don’t panic if you get stuck under the water for more than a few seconds.
If you are a beginner you shouldn’t be stuck under the waves for more than 3 or 4 seconds.
In case of any emergency get your surf coach attention quickly.
You should discuss with your surf coach about a signal to show that you might be in need of some help.
5. Don’t paddle inside of the breaking point and where most waves are crashing.
Because when you are riding the wave you might get caught up with another surfer.
6. Don’t ditch your surfboard. It can injure another surfer in the way.
7. Don’t get in the way of another surfer if he/she is already taking the wave. The surfer with the longest potential ride has priority for the wave.
For example, if you want to surf to the right look left and make sure nobody is coming.
Keep your head up and take notice of what’s going on around you.
We hope you have enjoyed the do’s and don’ts in surfing as a beginner.
The Surf Etiquette can also be used by any surfer.
For more information about how or when to start your journey in surfing, do trust that we are here to support you
If you still not sure if you want to learn, check the Top 20 Health Benefits of Surfing!
Aloha🤙