Have you always wanted to surf but don't know where to start? This beginners guide will help you take the right first steps.
EQUIPMENT
During October-April, it is best to wear a 4/3 mm thickness suit in the ocean. In the summertime, from May-September, you will need a 3/2 mm wetsuit. The first number is the neoprene thickness in the body and the second number is the thickness in the arms. You will also need a foam surfboard. For persons under 135lbs, 8ft is best. All persons over that should have a 9-10 ft board. The board comes with a cord that connects from the back of the board to your ankle known as a leash.
PADDLE
Next we teach paddling and positioning techniques. We practice by laying down on your board in the sand. It is best to visualize being in the water to prep you before actually entering the ocean. To be positioned correctly, you should have your toes touching the back edge, or tail, of the surfboard. This is to prevent the front tip, or nose, of the surfboard from nose diving when catching a wave. From the laying down position you will practice paddling. Pretend we are paddling out past the break away from the shore and a wave is approaching you. Paddle forward at the oncoming wave and the seconds before it crashes, begin to place your hands flat by your chest, push up and arch your spine like a half push up. This allows you to effectively push through the wave. Either you paddle fully past where the waves break and sit on your board or remain on your stomach and turn around to face the shore where the big and small waves break and turn into white water. Our instructors then help you catch your first wave.
POP UP
It is important to know which foot you put forward on your board when you’re riding a wave. The dominant leg is positioned towards the back of the board similar to how you would stand on a skateboard or snowboard. Mastering a good pop up comes from the springing action of your body, where you jump your feet into place. This is simply a modified burpee where you rotate 90 degrees. If this is difficult, you can try getting to your knees first and then to a standing position. Our instructors first teach this on the sand before trying it in the water. They give you pointers and make small adjustments to help you perfect your form. Pop ups are to be practiced several times in order to build a connection with the board.
SAFETY
Our lessons always emphasize safety and technique. When you ride a wave into shore it gets shallow so jumping off safely is vital. The safest way from a standing position is to return back down to both knees on the board. The next option is to fall to the side of your board on your butt! If you jump off in the shallow sand bar with both feet you may hurt your joints so always exercise caution. Always shield your head with your elbows if you are tumbling in the wave to protect your head from the surfboard. You must also learn how to deal with a big wave that catches you by surprise. When in this scenario, get off your board, let it float behind you, take a breath then dive under and resurface on the other side of the turbulence. Always protect your head in case the board is directly above you.
TRYING IT OUT
It's now time to tie your leash to your back ankle and carry your board out into the surf. The instructor will give you vocal cues and support you through the whole process. Remember to have fun and take breaks if your body is telling you to. Surfing is one of the hardest and most physically demanding, but most rewarding sports.
Use the link below to book your first lesson!