How to Surf as a Beginner

Often described as one of the most enjoyable water sports varieties ever invented, surfing is a skill that can enhance any beach holiday experience. While the thrill of riding big waves in the ocean may feel daunting at first, those to learn the basics of the sport are likely to find the activity immensely rewarding rather than a dangerous undertaking. Here are some guidelines on how to thrive as a beginner learning the ropes of surfing for the first time.

1. Don't Learn Solo

While the notion of learning to surf by watching others or picking up the basics by watching instructional videos may seem appealing and budget-friendly, no first-timer should try learning to surf on their own. Regardless of how easy or effortless it may appear, surfing is an art form, a sport that takes time to learn and cultivate competency in. attempting to take on the waves by yourself is not only foolhardy but dangerous and potentially life-threatening. So it is necessary to learn the basics with a pro to avoid injuring yourself as well as others in the water by heading out to take on the waves on your own.

2. Secure an Instructor

The best way to learn how to surf as a beginner is to enlist the services of a qualified instructor to take you through the motions in the form of lessons. Note that not all surfing teachers are created equal and that it may be necessary to shop around for one that fits your budget and personal needs. Those who are based at Avani Broadbeach Residences and other beachside rests will find that enrolling in a water sports school or a resort-based surfing program are some of the most popular things to do in Broadbeach. This is due to the fact that surfing schools/programs and water sports centres offer newbies the support and guidance necessary to master the activity.

3. Start Big

Although using bigger surf board may seem counter-intuitive, all beginners should test the waters in bigger boards rather than short boards which afford little leeway for mistakes. Large size boards help beginners understand the mechanics of how buoyancy is achieved in the water and the chances of catching more waves are also higher with a bigger board.

4. Buy a Soft Top

First-time surfers should keep in mind that a vast majority of their time will be spent sitting on the board, rather than standing on it and riding waves. Soft topped surf boards are a great entry-level board due to the comfort and safety afforded by the surface. The epoxy features and the fibreglass also make for a more comfortable surfing experience for beginners.

5. Tackle What You Can Handle

All surfers must fight off the temptation to take on waves that are beyond their skill level and beginners are no different. Every surfing beach has an area that is more suitable for first-time surfers or those with limited skills and these are the waves you should be tackling instead of overestimating your capabilities and wiping out on big waves. Wait till the skills and experience level catches up with the size and scale of the mammoth waves you wish to tackle and only then attempt to ride the monster waves that the pros take on.

6. Stretch and Prep Adequately

Learning to surf not only includes the best practices to avoid wiping out in the water but also how to prepare for surfing adventures on shore. It is crucial to do stretching exercises on the beach before rushing into the water and to perform other check-up routines such as ensuring the leash is latched on and that the board is adequately waxed. Keeping an eye on the water and how other surfers who are already in the water are behaving is a good habit to foster as this will allow one to gauge the conditions in the water without leaving the shore.