Top 10 Tips for Beginner Surfers

Embarking on the journey of surfing can be as thrilling as it is challenging. The ocean, with its vast and unpredictable nature, offers a unique blend of excitement and tranquility that lures countless individuals to take up surfing. For those starting out, the world of surfing might seem daunting, but with the right guidance and tips, you’ll find yourself riding the waves in no time. We present the top tips for beginner surfers to help you start your surfing adventure on the right foot.

Choose the Right Surfboard

Choose the Right Surfboard

As a beginner, your choice of surfboard can make a significant difference. Opt for a larger, wider, and thicker board. These boards offer more stability and are easier to paddle, which is crucial when you’re learning how to catch waves.

The “Wavestorm” surfboards are the best-selling surfboards in the world for a reason: they’re a lot of fun and a superb entry-level board. When you’re just starting out, your board will undoubtedly strike you. But don’t worry, your body will be able to withstand the punishment with a soft top.

Start on Gentle Waves

Unless you’re an expert, you should look for beaches or regions with calmer waves. Inquire with local surf gurus about the best beaches for beginners. Even if you do venture out into waves that are too big for your abilities, go for smaller ones and only surf them. Early morning waves are often calmer than those in the afternoon when the trade winds build up.

Avoid jumping into big waves right away. Start with smaller, gentler waves that are more forgiving. This will help you build your confidence and skills gradually.  You may wish to try the more popular sites in your neighborhood, but popular areas are likely to be visited by surfers who have been there for years and will catch the finest waves. Begin someplace off the usual path and less busy – you’ll receive more waves and, as a consequence, improve quicker.

Learn to Read the Waves

Understanding how waves form and break is key to successful surfing. Spend time observing the waves and noticing patterns. This knowledge will be invaluable when you’re out in the water.

Master the Pop-Up

Standing up on a wave requires a rapid and fluid pop up – think of it as a quick, but controlled, push-up. Perfect your movements on the beach, and it will come much more naturally when you’re in the surf.

The pop-up is the move you use to stand up on your board. Practice this on the beach first. Remember, it’s one swift motion – not a two-step process. Consistency in your pop-up technique will significantly improve your surfing.

Work on Your Paddling

Work on Your Paddling

Good paddling technique is essential. It’s not just about arm strength; it’s about efficiency. Ensure you’re paddling with your whole arm – dipping your whole arm into the water and making a smooth, continuous stroke.

Beginner surfers are often seen paddling too far back on their boards, causing them to wheelie and slow down. On the other hand, some rookies paddle too high on their boards, causing the nose to poke underwater.  What you need to do is identify the sweet spot in the center, mark it with wax, then paddle in that position.

Respect Surf Etiquette

Learn and follow the rules of surfing. This includes not dropping in on someone else’s wave, taking turns, and respecting the locals. Understanding surf etiquette is crucial for both safety and respect in the surfing community.

Keep Your Eyes Forward

When you’re surfing, where you look is where you go. Keep your eyes focused on where you want to go, rather than looking down at the board.

Bend Your Knees, Not Your Back

Bend Your Knees Not Your Back

Your stance on the board should be stable and comfortable. Keep your knees bent for better balance and maneuverability. Avoid bending too much at the waist, which can throw off your balance.

Don’t Get Discouraged

Surfing has a steep learning curve. You’ll fall off your board a lot, and that’s okay. Each wipeout is a learning experience. Be patient with yourself and enjoy the process.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Like any skill, surfing requires practice. The more time you spend in the water, the better you will get. Try to surf regularly to build your skills and confidence.

Change your feet

This has nothing to do with actually riding a wave, but shuffle your feet while stepping in and out of the water to lessen your chances of being stung by a stingray. Ask anyone: the agony of a stingray barb cutting through your foot is enough to make an adult weep — and certainly enough to end your surf session short.

Maintain a perpendicular position to the whitewash

This is one that most coaches have taught from the beginning and it remains true today. Consider this: If you and your board are grabbed horizontally by a wave, you will be clobbered and forced toward the beach.

Instead, slice through whitewash when paddling out by taking it straight on and keeping your body low to the board.

Take use of the additional paddle

Take use of the additional paddle

This is a tip that is applicable to all levels of surfers. Take one extra powerful stroke as you’re paddling for a wave and feel the energy of it start to lift you into it. The increased velocity will keep you from being stranded at the crest of the wave, making the descent considerably simpler.

Fall flat

Let’s be honest: you’re going to tumble. When you do, the easiest method to avoid injury is to fall nice and flat. Never leap off your board headfirst; instead, flop onto your side or back. Due to the uneven structure of the seabed, even leaping off feet first may be deadly.

Put your arms and hands in front of your face and above your head when you break the surface after falling – you never know when your board may come rocketing back at you.

Bend your knee

The way you stand on your surfboard is critical to properly directing it and riding your wave. Slightly bending your knees can assist your body absorb shocks and keep you steady on your board. Shift your head in the direction you wish to go, then gently move your upper body and hips to finish your maneuver through the waves.

Conclusion

Surfing is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that connects you deeply with nature. As a beginner, the most important thing is to have fun and stay safe. Remember, every pro surfer was once a beginner. With these top 10 tips, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident and skilled surfer. So, grab your board, hit the waves, and enjoy the ride of a lifetime!

This is by far the most critical piece of advice for any new surfer (and the main reason we do it). As you learn to surf, you will crash out, get in people’s way, and generally wack out. But that’s okay; we all had to start somewhere!