7 Things You Need To Do Before Taking Your First Surf

surfing

It’s that time of the year once again for a tropical getaway and some piña colada sippin’ by the beach. You’re probably hoping to master a new sport, and then you realize that there is nothing quite as cool and badass like learning how to surf. Well, throwing yourself in the giant waves is really fizzing as you think but also keep in mind that surfing isn’t just a usual beach activity. Surfing can be very dangerous that it takes a lot of requirements to be pulled off. So, before catching the first wave, make sure you’re aware of the things you need to do and expect from your first surfing sesh. 

 

Gear up. 

Wearing the proper gear is necessary for all types of sport. This way helps improve your practice and makes it easier for you to move at the same time. When it comes to surfing, the weather can affect the way surfers choose the right gear to put on. So, if the water’s temperature is colder than what you normally swim, you have to wear a wetsuit that’s typically 3 millimetres thick. But for much colder temperatures such as the Pacific Northwest, surf rashies should be at least 5 millimetres dense. If you really want surfing that much, you have to start investing in wetsuits for a more flexible surfing experience.         

 

Check elements like weather, ocean, and waves. 

You can’t just ride on the waves whenever you want to. Because, when it comes to surfing, mother nature has always the final say. The ocean lets us play with its waves as long as we do it with respect to its power and beauty. So, before you begin, you have to check the powerful elements around you ‒ the weather, the ocean, and the waves. These elements hold a force that you can forget about winning if you dare to challenge them. Learn how to find the safe spot by observing what happens when the other surfers navigate the waves and paddle out.    

 

Wax your board.

Your surfboard will be your best friend in this game so make sure to take good care of it through waxing. Choosing the right wax to apply is the key. When purchasing the right wax, look for the packet that instructs which temperature you can use it in. Waxing your board can help improve your stability and avoid slipping off easily. Also, consider your body size when choosing the right length, width, and volume for your board.      

 

Do a warm-up session. 

Surfing is no doubt a total body workout; hence, make sure your body is warmed up before you set foot on the waters. You may not often see other surfers doing a warmup before starting a session but it’s always smart to prepare the body for some all-out physical effort.  And just as important, do not forget to drink water to hydrate yourself throughout the entire activity. 

 

Do not surf alone.

This is a strict rule for beginners. Like what I’ve said, various dangers can happen in the ocean because ocean waves can never be the same and the ocean is constantly changing. So, when you suddenly fall or get an injury, chances are that you can’t go back to the shore or drown. My advice, always paddle up with a friend or surf where there are lifeguards to check on you. 

 

Learn the perfect ride.

It’s okay to wipe your feet off the board and fall for once or twice. It’s not every day that you get to catch a wave but it’s okay. You just have to get used to it and have fun with it until you learn the perfect ride and master the take-off technique. First, you need to watch your position: your toes should be lined up on the back end of the board while the chest should be stuck firmly to it. Then, try to paddle as hard as you can with your body steady on the board. After a second or two, pop up and then start from lying to standing to surfing. 

Respect the rules. 

Just like driving, sports like surfing have their own rules too. First rule: beginners should act politely by simply saying hello on arrival or apologizing when they block a surfer’s path.  Second rule: it’s always a good courtesy if foreigners let the locals have some extra priority. And third rule: surf in safe areas where there are no children playing in the water.  

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