7 Useful Tips for Beginning Surfers Today
If you desire to surf, you must learn everything about the sport. Surfing is an exciting and fun outdoor sport that is popular worldwide. Keep in mind that surfing is a challenging sport, but anyone, whether young or old, can start surfing with the right tips.
As a beginner, it is vital that you do your research and dedicates time to learning this beautiful sport. To help you, we have gathered some key tips that will help you improve your surfing skills and become a better surfer:
Find a Trainer
Surfing may seem like an easy water activity, but it is a very complex sport. Learning to surf by yourself can be dangerous, especially if you don’t know anything about it. Remember, not all waves are suitable for newbies; that’s why you must find a trainer or an experienced surfer who can guide you.
You can even consider opting for surf schools that equip you with all the necessary tips and tricks to help you surf the right way. The Ombe method is one way you can understand the sport the right way, learn more here.
Learn Surfing Etiquettes
One of the first things that every surfer should know is the unwritten laws that every individual follows in the water. These etiquettes are designed to protect every surfer so that each of them has a pleasant surfing experience.
Newbies are often unaware of these rules, and because of this, they end up disrespecting the locals and other experienced surfers. Some of the regulations include don’t drop it, waiting for your turn, never snake, understand the right of way, etc. Surfers are very forgiving, so if you happen to break these laws, a simple apology will help you.
Spend Time on Dry Grounds
As much as it is tempting to dive straight into the ocean, you must take a step back and spend some time on land. By doing so, you will get an opportunity to observe the waves, the people, the weather, etc. Once you do that, you can prepare yourself accordingly to surf well. This also allows you to stretch your muscles which is necessary before you surf.
Choose Your Surfing Spot Wisely
As a newbie, your surfing spot is vital if you want to improve your skills. A quick and easy tip is to choose beaches with the least crowds so that you can practice everything you have been learning. You can even find beginner-friendly beaches near your home because those waves are much easier to ride.
Heading to crowded places won’t give you the freedom to be yourself and practice properly because there might be a massive queue before you ride your wave. Once you have mastered the basics, you can gradually move to more giant waves and become a better surfer.
Right Way of Paddling
One of the most important techniques you need to learn is paddle. While it seems simple, the key is finding the right rhythm, or it can be pretty exhausting. Before you ride your wave, you need first to reach the wave, and for that, you need to paddle and get into the correct position.
A pro tip for beginners that every beginner misses is letting go too soon before making the drop on a wave. Instead, take one more strong paddle at the tip of the wave so that you don’t end up getting stuck before the break.
Master the Pop-Up
Without mastering the pop-up, you will never get to ride your wave efficiently. So make sure that you spend enough time on land practicing this technique. You need to switch from your paddling position (prone) to standing on your board seamlessly.
When you move into this position, you need to learn to balance yourself so that you won’t fall off. It may take a few hours or a day to master for some people, while others may take longer. In any case, perfecting this move is vital if you want to ride your wave without falling off.
Have the Right Equipment
Newbies are always looking to have the best of boards because they want to surf their wave in style. But starting with a longboard is crucial as it will give you more control of your board when practicing the basics.
At the same time, make sure that you have a wet suit, a leash, and surf wax with you whenever you head to the beach. These surfing gears will ensure that you have a pleasant surfing experience.
Have Fun
Above all, you must have fun when you are surfing. Sometimes, it can be frustrating when nothing is going your way, but you will achieve your goal with time and effort. Want to look cool while surfing? Consider getting Ray Bans, as they can be perfect for you.