Ten Top Tips For Beginner Surfers

Surfing is such a unique sport, it isnt something you can master in a day but the challenge is addictive. Many people have it on their bucket list.

So here are 10 tips for beginners to ease those worries, aimed at helping you to start the adventure. Don't be nervous surfing is an exhilarating feeling. Just like any other sport though, you need to put in some time and effort to learning and becoming better at it. If you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to becoming a great surfer.

1. Don’t Learn by Yourself.

Surfers manage to make it look easy but it isnt that straight forward so reach out and get some advice before you start your surf journey sign up for a lesson or surf camp to get you on the right track first.

2. Use a Big Surfboard

Big boards are cool too! This is one of the best beginner surfing tips you could ever choose to follow. Many people are tempted to jump on smaller, shorter boards as quickly as possible. A larger board will help you develop better fundamental surf skills and you’ll catch a lot more waves (and have fun) in the early stages.

3. Surf the right wave

Hanging out in the front is okay. Learning in the right area of the beach is important for beginning surfers. Learn to surf on some smaller white wash waves to start with before you attempt larger ones. Even though you may feel ready, unless your teacher says you’re ready, you’re not. Trust me, you’ll be upgrading your surf spot in no time with the right amount of dedication.

4. Dry land training

So you have arrived at the beach don’t rush in the water just yet. Spend some time on the beach and do stretch. Check your leash, your board and the most important step take a moment to watch the waves. Every day is different out on the water so take the time to see whats happening that day. Keep your eye on the other surfers and see what they do.

5. Respect others and stay safe

It simply means keep your distance from other surfers experienced or other beginners. As a beginner you’re prone some mistakes, and you want to avoid getting in people’s way. The safety of others is just as important as your own safety every time you get in the water.

6. Get Comfortable Sitting on that Board

It may sound a little weird but sitting on a surfboard is not the easiest, nor is it the most comfortable thing in the world. Have some fun floating around and get a feel for your board.

7. Paddle, Paddle, Paddle!

Paddling is another skill you will need to keep practice until you get it right. Wether you are paddling for a wave or heading back out you will need a strong paddle. The key to a good paddle is to find a rhythm and to keep it. It can be quite exhausting the first few times but keep at it.

8. Get Used to Wiping Out

There is one thing surfing involves and that is a lot of wipeouts. You will fall, and fall, and fall…and then you’ll fall some more. The important thing is to not get frustrated be cause every time you fall you learn something new. All you need to remember is that it’s all part of the game.

9. Bend those Knees

When you’re board and your ridding a wave, it is crucial that you bend your knees and not your back. When you bend from your back you will loose your balance and have less control. Bend from your knees and you will look better too!

10. Have Fun

No matter what you do and where you are, if you’re not having fun, it’s not worth it. Remember “The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun.”