Mastering the basics
It’s true; a surfer never forgets his or her initial wave. Surfing is the coolest ever sport, but there are several things to consider before you take the ride of your life.
Learning to surf
Lessons are your first priority and there are surf schools to be found on most decent beaches. You may even be lucky enough to have a surfing pal who can teach you how to surf. If you don’t want to risk drowning or upsetting the experienced surfers, you will also need to learn all about surfing etiquette and:
- How to paddle
- The crouch position
- Whipping your feet under your body
- Standing up from a sitting crouch position
- How to balance
- Lifting off on a wave
- Riding a wave
There are so many people that don’t learn these steps before taking to the water and they are a danger to themselves and other surfers.
Once you have had a day in the surf you will want to return to the waves again and again. You will love to surf and it won’t concern you that water is dripping like a tap from your nose, your arms feel like lead and sand is scratching every nook and cranny of your body. This won’t enter your head, as bikinis clad beauties clutch at your biceps.
However, if you don’t want to regret that you decided to surf, take some time to become “surf wise”.
Swimming and exercises for would be surfers
Before you even consider whether you want a longboard or short board, book surfing holidays or buy any surfing gear, you need to know your strengths and weaknesses. For example, it is important that you can swim well before taking to the water on a surfboard.
Exercises that are beneficial when learning to surf include:
- Bench press ups
- Push up
- Leg presses
- Squats
- Aerobic exercises such as swimming, dancing, cycling and running
A good balance of this type of exercise will prepare you for surfing by strengthening calves and thighs, helping your balance and making you stronger and able to endure more.
Familiarise yourself with a surfboard
Take a good look at a surfboard so that you become familiar with its features. A longboard is approximately nine by two feet with a strip in the middle. It may have one of more fins. The surfboard leash near the tail can be attached to your ankle to prevent you parting company with it, if you fall off. It takes some practise to become accustomed to the leash, so try it out in a swimming pool or practise on the beach. You can also practise your balance in a swimming pool to reproduce surfing conditions.
On the beach you can make a narrow groove in the sand for your surfboard and practise the pop up as well as standing from a sitting or paddling position.
You confidence will grow with your surfing lessons and when you are ready to hit the surf take a surf buddy with you to show you the proper distance to keep from others surfers and other aspects of surf etiquette. He will be able to instruct you in paddling, catching a wave and will be there for you if you encounter difficulties.
Preparing yourself mentally and physically will ensure an excellent surfing experience!