Want To Try Surfing? Here Are Tips On How To Get Started

Posted by: KHTS Articles in News Articles March 1, 2021 - 10:18 am 0 345 Views

Surfing doesn’t come naturally to people, except a few lucky ones, yet it is on almost everyone’s bucket list. Unfortunately, surfing isn’t as simple as floating on top of the water and waiting for a good wave to come along. Some people spend their lives afraid to give it a try whether they are scared of falling in the water or they are hindered by fear of failure. The chill you get with the waves rolling in front of you while you have the perfect view of the ocean is unparalleled. This joy can get you immediately addicted to the salty taste on your lips and the wind in your hair even if you spend half the time missing waves and the other half landing on your head.

However, when you do manage to catch your first wave, there are few pleasures in this world that can compare to the feeling. The thought of taking the first step without knowing what to expect might stop beginners from even giving it a try. To help you out, here are some tips and tricks to bear in mind while you embark on your surfing journey.

Surfing Etiquette

Before you start focusing on the waves, it’s essential to understand the etiquette of surfing. This is not only to avoid getting on the nerves of experienced surfers but to also protect yourself and others. For starters, you should never leave your board behind. It should be attached to you by a leash, so this won’t be a problem. The rule you should prioritize is never getting in the way of other surfers who are riding the same way as you. To avoid stealing anyone’s thunder, bear in mind that the surfer closest to the break should get the right of way. Don’t let it discourage you if you make mistakes during your first few lineups. There is always room to grow and learn.

Practice Makes Perfect

Many beginners who decide to start on their own end up giving up, as they expect to immediately pick up surfing and start riding waves. Surfing is deceptively complicated. Unfortunately, the media and professionals make surfing look smooth and easy as if anyone can pick up a board and ride any wave they encounter. This couldn’t be further from reality.

The first step is learning how to keep your balance while you are standing on the board. This is why it’s always recommended to find the most suitable private surf lessons for your level. Two or three classes are a great idea to give yourself a firm foundation. Mastering the basics and etiquette is essential for the success of any young surfer in the making. After managing standing on the board, you need to learn the type of waves you should skip, and the ones that are appropriate for your level.

Warming Up Goes a Long Way

We need to put emphasis on how important warming up is. Muscle cramps, no matter how mild, can lead to many dangerous situations in the water. Thus, a warm-up session before entering the water is essential. Warming up before surfing increases your heart rate and, consequently, helps oxygenate your blood. Doing some light exercises and stretches is always a smart move to prevent the risk of muscle cramps and fatigue. Drinking enough water is another way to help prevent these issues.

Learn When and Where to Surf

After you have taken lessons and learned enough about etiquette and basic techniques, it’s time to observe. Movies and pro surfers have glorified the magnificent flips and rides. What the highlight reels don’t show, however, is all the waiting and observing you have to do. Rushing or making irresponsible decisions fueled by adrenaline cravings can easily lead to unwanted consequences. You can learn how to surf at https://ombe.co/how-to-surf-guide/.

While you’re still learning how to pick and ride the right waves, it’s safe to look for knee-high waves that are rolling toward the shore. Make sure that the place you pick is not too crowded with other surfers as you might find yourself overwhelmed. At the same time, this place should offer the opportunity of catching lots of waves.

Surfing is not just a cool sport that anyone can intuitively pick up. It requires patience, practice, and careful attention to the details and rules. Before heading out to ride your first wave, make sure that you have enough knowledge, understanding of the etiquette, and a sense of which waves to ride. Seeking help from professional trainers can also go a long way, especially at the beginning.