Are you thinking about taking up surfing? If so, there are a few things you should know before you begin your journey. Surfing can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a challenging sport. If you’re not prepared for it, you could wind up hurting yourself or even worse.
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That’s why we’ve put together this list of seven things beginners need to know before hitting the waves. Read on to learn more!
Learn The Importance Of Surfing Etiquette
One of the most important things to know before you start surfing is the importance of surfing etiquette. This is a set of unspoken rules that govern how surfers interact with one another and with the waves. Some key points of etiquette include not dropping in on other surfers, not paddling out directly in front of them, and respecting others’ wave rights. If you don’t know and follow the etiquette, you could quickly make enemies out on the waves.
Familiarize Yourself With All The Different Surf Gear
One of the most daunting things about taking up surfing can be all of the different gear involved. From boards to wetsuits to leashes and wax, it can be a lot to take in all at once. However, it is important to familiarize yourself with all of the different types of gear before you hit the waves. Once you know what all of the different pieces of equipment are and how they work, you will be one step closer to becoming a surfing pro.
Surfboards And Wetsuits
Boards come in all shapes and sizes, and it is important to choose one that is right for your level of experience. If you are a beginner, it is best to start out with a larger board that is easy to paddle and stable. Inflatable sup boards are easy to carry and are also a great option for beginners. Shortboards on the other hand should be left to people with more experience. So before you head out to hit the waves make sure you do your research and find the right board for you.
Wetsuits are another essential piece of gear for surfing. Wearing a wetsuit will help to keep you warm in the water and protect you from the sun. It is important to choose a wetsuit that fits snugly and does not restrict your movement. Leashes are also an important piece of equipment, as they help to keep your board attached to you in case you fall off.
Wax
Wax is another essential piece of gear for surfing. It helps to keep you glued to your board and prevents you from slipping off. There are different types of wax for different conditions, so it is important to choose the right one. If you are a beginner, it is best to start with a soft wax that is easy to apply and remove. As you become more experienced, you can experiment with different types of wax to find what works best for you.
Wear Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen is important for all surfers, no matter their level of experience. The sun can be harsh on your skin, and it is important to protect yourself from its harmful rays. Wearing sunscreen will help to prevent sunburn and skin cancer. It is also important to reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
Don’t Surf Alone
One of the most important things that beginners need to know before they start surfing is that they should never surf alone. Even if you are a strong swimmer, the ocean is a dangerous place and it is always best to have someone with you in case something goes wrong. If you are surfing by yourself, be sure to stay close to shore and always have an exit strategy in case you get into trouble.
Another important thing to remember is that surfing is a physically demanding sport. It requires a lot of upper body strength to paddle out to the waves and then catch them. If you are not in good shape, you may want to consider another activity.
Learn Surfing Terminology
One of the most important things to know before you start surfing is all of the different terminologies. For example, knowing what a wave break is will help you understand where to paddle out. Here are some essential terms that all beginner surfers should know:
Wave Break: The point at which waves begin to crest and break.
Crest: The highest point of the wave.
Face: The part of the wave that breaks.
Tube: When the face of a wave breaks and forms a hollow tunnel around the surfer.
Rip Current: A strong current of water that flows away from shore, rip currents can be dangerous and should be avoided.
Now that you know some essential surfing terminology, you will be one step closer to becoming a pro.
Don’t Try And Learn By Yourself
One of the worst things you can do when starting out surfing is trying to learn by yourself. Not only is it more difficult to progress without someone showing you the ropes, but it’s also much more dangerous. If you’re determined to go it alone, make sure you at least watch a lot of instructional videos first and understand the basics of surfing safety. Otherwise, find a friend or relative who can surf and have them teach you the basics. You’ll learn much faster and it’ll be a lot more enjoyable. Trust me, surfing is way more fun when you’re not constantly wiping out!
Another beginner mistake is assuming that all beaches are good for surfing. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Different beaches have different conditions, and some are simply better for surfing than others. Do your research before heading out and make sure you’re going to a beach that’s good for beginners. There’s nothing worse than paddling out only to find that the waves are too big or the currents are too strong.
Check The Forecast Before You Head Out
Before you head out for a day of surfing, it is important to check the forecast. The weather can have a big impact on the waves and conditions at the beach, so it is important to know what to expect. If the forecast calls for strong winds, it is likely that the waves will be choppy and difficult to surf. If the forecast is for calm conditions, the waves will be more gentle and easier to ride. Checking the forecast before you head out will help you choose the right beach and have a better day of surfing.
I hope this blog post has helped to give you a better understanding of what beginners need to know before they start surfing. Learning to surf can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it is important to be prepared before you head out. Be sure to keep these things in mind and you’ll be well on your way to becoming a surfing pro in no time!
