Becoming More Active

Surfing Lessons: What To Know As A First-Timer

If you are planning a vacation to the ocean, one of your must-do items may be learning how to surf. Doing so can be absolutely invigorating. If you have never surfed before, it may be a good idea to sign up for surfing lessons before simply heading out into the big ocean. Surfing lessons will teach you the basics of ocean safety, surfing etiquette, and surfing in general. Here are a few things to know prior to your first surf lesson.

You'll Spend a Considerable Amount of Time in the Sand

You may think that you will spend the bulk of your time in the water for your surf lesson, but in reality, the opposite is true. You need to become familiar with the surfboard and how your body needs to position, and this will all be done while on land. Your surfing instructor will teach you how to paddle as well as how to pop up on your board. You will need to get this down before getting into the water.

You'll Likely Use a Long Surfboard

Beginner surfers typically use longboards. It is true that they appear large and bulky, but they are much easier to paddle on and catch waves. Due to the fact that they are incredibly buoyant, they are far more stable, which makes it easier for a beginner surfer to stand up on while out in the water.

Catching a Wave Is Not the Most Difficult Part

Believe it or not, catching a wave that you can ride is not the hardest part of your surfing lesson. One reason for this is because only a small fraction of your time will actually be spent out in the water. The bulk of your time will be spent padding into the water, into the proper position to catch the wave, and then back into a position to start all over again once you've ridden a wave. Surf instructors will let you know when you can begin to paddle, and they will give you a good push into the wave and let you know when you should pop up onto the board. At that point, it is all up to you to ride that wave.

These are just a few of the things that you should be prepared for when you sign up for your first surf lesson. For more information, reach out to someone who offers surfing lessons.


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