In surfing, if you fail to give yourself enough time to grow beyond the basics and find that “eureka!” moments when you just seem to get everything right, you might find yourself drained, wet and confused, wondering what all the fuss is about. Surfing looks pretty easy from afar in the eyes of many spectators until they are in the water themselves with waves crashing on their heads.
The truth is, for a beginner, surfing is tough! Are you a beginner who is struggling with surfing? Or are you searching for some quick fixes and tips to greatly improve your surfing? This guide will show you some helpful tips that will get you surfing like a pro in no time.
Pick The Right Board
Before even talking about the do’s and don’ts in the water, the first step is to get the right board. When it comes to most surfers (especially those learning to surf for the first time), bigger is better with boards. And picking the perfect beginner river surfboard from Hydrus BoardTech is key to progression.
Do not be ashamed to rock that 8-foot mini Mal or that 9-foot log. Moreover, enthusiasts at SouthernMan.com.au recommend that you experiment with renting a few different sizes, speaking to pro surfers and dealers in the shop, and choose a board that is going to help you catch heaps of waves.
Surf What Is Before You
Sometimes when paddling out to surf, we paddle with the sole aim of trying out a new maneuver. The problem with this idea is that you will no longer surf to compliment the wave. If you desire to improve your surfing before your next visit to the beach for a surf adventure, a great tip is always to surf what is in front of you instead of forcing your new skills and will on the wave.
How do you imagine good surfers always look so good, even when the surf is poor? It is all because they have learned how to surf a wave without thinking of the moves. This way, the wave dictates, and they go with the flow, literally. With layback snaps, re-entries, and even aerials also being reserved for certain sections on a wave, the next time you stand up, let the wave choose how you’re going to surf.
Learn Proper Paddling
Many people might overlook paddling, because it does not come in handy when you are riding a wave. And as far as learning how to surf goes, paddling comes naturally to every person who picks up a surfboard. But the thing about paddling, especially when done properly. It allows catching waves and getting out the back to be easier.
One way to generate more power when paddling is to reach as far as possible with every stroke. Also, keep in mind that paddling involves rotating your shoulders and not just moving your arms. Keeping your fingers closed when paddling also helps. A tiny detail, no doubt, but it has proven to provide adequate lift while in the water and propel you and the board forward more efficiently.
Do Not Stop Surfing
It is very easy to wake up early in the morning to surf, only to hurry back to bed when the conditions seem unfavorable (and this has nothing to do with rains or storms). It is difficult but decidedly more rewarding when you still go out when the surf is average. Moreover, all it takes is a single wave to make a session anyway, right? And there is no way you are going to catch that wave in bed, under the covers.
So, when you check the surf and see that it is onshore, overcast, and maybe a little on the small side, grab your board with all dedication and go for a paddle. Keeping at this is one way to improve your surfing dramatically since you will be forced to surf in more challenging conditions instead of only surfing ‘perfect’ waves, which are 4 feet tall and offshore, perfect by any standards!
Warm-Up Before Getting Into the Water
Like every other sport, a proper warm-up is one of the hardest, but most important things to get yourself to do. It is particularly tough to warm up on the beach, jumping around when you can see the waves pumping. While you might miss a couple of waves when you warm up, you will reap harder on the ones you do eventually catch, and better still, you will be free from certain injuries.
A good warm-up should last between 5-10 minutes. It helps to consider the physical demands of surfing when planning your warm-up — twisting, squatting, jumping, pushing up, landing, popping up, and paddling. Stick to a routine that gives you a slight sweat and an overall sense of physical and mental readiness. You would notice the difference.
Now that you have these 5 tips, you can be sure to notice a significant improvement in your overall surfing skills and experience. Remember that it does not take one try-out to get better. Regular and consistent practice is the key to master any skill. Learn more skills as you advance, do not forget the basics, and watch yourself become the surfer you desire.
