If you’re interested in surfing (and who isn’t?), then you’ll want to make sure you fully understand the sport before diving in. After all, there’s a right way and a wrong way to get started surfing, and knowing a handful of things up front will help you get into the sport in the right way. Of course, you won’t be able to hang ten until you let yourself up on the waves — safely! — and have a great time.
Don’t try to surf on your own.
As eager as you might be to get started, make sure you have an experienced friend or teacher with you, or find a surfing class or surf camp to attend before you jump in the water. Not only will this be safer for you and everyone else around you who is trying to ride the waves, but you’ll have a lot more fun once you get on the water because you’ll know so much more about the sport.
Pick a big surfboard and leash it to yourself.
If there’s one surfing tip you’ll see repeated, it’s to get a big board to start out with. Big boards are easier to balance, and provide you with a larger surface for learning your new hobby. Also, waxing your board will make a better surface for your feet to grip. You’ll also want to make sure you have a leash for your board as well, to keep it close for those inevitable wipeouts, and prevent it from possibly causing harm to a fellow surfer.
Start on dry land.
While this may seem detrimental to your end goal, there is quite a bit you can do on dry land to prepare yourself for communing with the water. Some light exercises or meditation can get you in the perfect headspace. Carving out a spot for your board on the sand and practicing some moves first, like lying prone on your board and then pushing up into a pop-up, will help you be ready to perform the same moves in the water.
Watch the waves.
Beginner or expert, all surfers need to have an idea of what the waves are acting like before they go try to ride them. Watch the other surfers, watch the waves and shore, watch the weather. Know what you’re going into. In person is the best way to do this, though there are also websites and apps out there that can tell you what’s going on.
Don’t be afraid, and enjoy yourself.
Everyone was a beginner at some point, and there will be countless more beginners after you. Don’t be afraid of wiping out, because it will happen. Learning the sport can be as fun as mastering it, however, and once you’ve embraced this mindset you’ll have a lot more fun. Don’t get ahead of yourself and risk injury, either. Pay attention to what you’re learning and practice, practice, practice. As long as you are having fun and using the skills you’re developing, you’ll be confidently hitting the waves before you know it.
If you want to know more about surfing or anything to do with this awesome sport, visit https://learntosurfkona.com/surf-lessons-rentals-kona-hawaii/ today!
