We are often asked how to best learn to surf. There are many options, but we believe the most effective way is to go on a surf holiday, where you can surf intensively for one or two weeks and really get started. We often say that it takes two weeks to truly get into surfing. The first week is spent surfing, partying a bit too much, and meeting a lot of new people, and by the second week, you're ready to seriously start learning how to surf.
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There are three basic ways to learn how to surf:
Surf Theory
The surfer uses knowledge of the ocean and conditions to figure out where they can perform maneuvers on the wave, as well as knowledge of equipment to make the most of the surfing experience.
Surfing Skills
There are two important things you need to master to learn surfing:
a. Applying Theory in Practice
This is the ability to crack the code and quickly assess where and how to surf the wave.
b. Motor Coordination Skills
Here, you learn how to use your body correctly and move optimally in relation to surfing. This includes mastering “the get-up” and maintaining balance on the wave.
Learning Values and Safety
This involves respecting others, respecting the environment, and understanding how to interact with others while surfing. For example, it's important to know who has "the right to the wave" to avoid accidents.
Ideally, you should surf with an experienced friend or a surf school when you’re learning for the first time. Surfing is really awesome, but it's important to be honest with yourself about your abilities. Since the sport is done in the ocean, it can be dangerous for both you and others if you attempt to surf in conditions you're not ready for.
Surf schools/Surf camps are a fast way to learn how to surf. The surf lessons are taught by skilled and experienced surfers in safe and controlled conditions. You’ll learn about dangers, the weather, and other things you need to understand before you really get started.
It’s also important to learn about tides and ocean currents, and you can always ask your instructor to show you how to read wave forecasts and other relevant information. It’s also helpful to get guidance on which waves to choose when transitioning from white waves to green waves (waves that are breaking). If you look at the picture of the girl below, this was her first green wave.
When you’re at surf camps, you’ll just borrow a beginner board, but if you want to buy a surfboard, you should also get a beginner surfboard (soft board). It’s longer and wider, which helps beginners gain enough speed to catch the waves more easily.
Beginner surfboards have more buoyancy, making them more stable and easier to get up on. It may look really cool to have a short board under your arm, but surfing isn’t about being cool. It’s about having fun and catching as many waves as possible. Don’t make the mistake of buying a surfboard that’s too small. BIG BOARDS BIG REWARDS.