Did you know there are around 2.68 million surfer dudes and dudettes in the US alone? And the exhilarating sport is growing more and more popular each year.
If you’re interested in learning to surf, you’ll never look back. In fact, surf legend Kelly Slater said, “It’s like the mafia. Once you’re in—your in. There’s no getting out.”
Are you ready to live, love, and surf? Read on for some pearls of salty wisdom you’ll need for your surfer adventures.
1. The Right Tools for the Job
A poor workman blames his tools, right? But in surfing, if your equipment isn’t up to scratch, you’ll make it harder for yourself.
Start with the right surfboard. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it needs to have the right volume and rocker.
Volume is important for new surfers, as the extra volume can keep you standing for longer. Wide, thick, longboards with a flat rocker are best for beginners.
You also need the right clothing, as surf wax and sand can cause painful skin rashes. Either use a rash guard or a wetsuit to protect your skin. Don’t forget time’s needed for breaking in a wetsuit before you feel 100% comfortable in it.
2. Learn from the Best
If you want to know how to surf, start off with a good teacher. If you don’t, you’ll end up with bad habits that are hard to break. Book sessions with an experienced instructor to give your surf career the best start.
Taking a “surf-cation” is a great way to get started. Wherever you start learning surf, make sure to start in an area that’s suitable for beginners. Or you may get yourself in trouble.
Not only can professionals teach you how to surf. But they can also fill you in on how to do it safely and any surf ethics you need to be aware of.
3. Learning to Surf—Ethics and Etiquette
There are many surf rules that you’ll learn along the way. Here are a few examples:
- Don’t paddle in
- Don’t snake
- Don’t paddle inside
- Don’t throw your board
- And more…
These phrases might seem like a foreign language to you. Learn what they mean and respect the surf culture you’re joining.
4. Falling in Style
New surfers often feel worried about wiping out. But even the pros wipe out sometimes. Falling isn’t a failure, it gives you the opporunity to learn from your mistakes.
So get back up and embrace each fall.
5. Don’t Give Up!
Remember that when your learning surfing skills, it’s going to take time and effort. It’s one of the most complex sports in the world, after all.
Take a step back and think about the complexity for a second. No wave is ever the same. Few other sports face the same challenge.
While it’s challenging, once you catch your first wave, you’ll feel hooked. You’ll get better, you just need to put in time and effort. Practice makes perfect!
Grab Your Board—Your Wave Is Waiting
So what are you waiting? Now you know these essential tips, start learning to surf today!
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