Surfing is one of the most amazing water sports that millions of people around the world take part in or wish to try every day. That being said, not everyone knows about how to get the best results with their surf. There are some things that you can do to help improve your surf game and can help you have the absolute best time when you head out to the waves.
Find the Right Surfboard
Surfboard design impacts your surfing. Right surfboard makes a huge difference in your overall performance and how much fun you have doing it. There are different components of surfboard design that can greatly affect how you surf. Don’t go choosing the uber primo board just because that’s what you see on a poster, a tv show, or because a salesperson tells you. Instead, learn and identify the equipment for your level and surfing.
The width and length have a huge impact on the way you control your surfboard. The more surface area that your board has, the better that it is going to float and easier for you to surf overall.
The thickness and the tail shape of the surfboard also makes a difference. Thinner surfboards are a bit faster while thicker boards are meant for surfers that might not have as much control. Similar is the case with tail shape, some will give you speed while some will give you more control. To know more, read about how surfboard design impacts your surfing.
Surfing Stretches
Surfing is a very intense sport and to prepare you for this water sport, you need to do some stretching. Arm circles are a great way to strengthen the arms to be able to hold them up and maintain a good tone.
Since you are standing and you are balancing, Torso twists will help you to strengthen your core. It will loosen the back so that you can have a bit more flexibility on your board.
Low lunges will help loosen your legs up so that you can move and be limber on the board. Read about these surfing stretches and how to do them to get the best overall mobility for the best surfing experience.
The Learning Curve
There’s a kid’s saying, you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. The same goes for surfing. If you want to start right follow two rules: Be nice to others and be humble. When new to surfing, you need to know that you are not going to be a great surfer right out of the door. You should be prepared to fall, not know what you are doing at first, and learn as you conquer the waves.
It’s amazing what can happen in terms of suddenly being exposed to skills, tips, guidance, and learning by simply getting along and acknowledging someone’s skill. Of course, don’t overdo it, but simply throwing some well-placed compliments can win points quickly and gain friendship instead of hostility on the waves.
Learn about Surf Ethics
You should also know about common surf ethics. You should respect the ocean and the beach, do not litter or do anything that is going to put other surfers on edge. You should stay out of the way of other surfers, be aware of your currents, and other things. You also need to make sure that you are holding onto your board and if you feel that you are unable to continue or you are afraid, you should paddle out.
Folks who just go diving into the water and trying to ride the first wave that comes along often miss this subtle but powerful piece of information. Instead, spend 10 minutes or so just watching the water. Focus on it until you feel you have an understanding of how the water works. Practice this observation and application method every time you go surf. It will produce amazing results and your surfing will become naturally in tune with the water for that day.
Choose The Right Surf Spot
The next thing to keep in mind is that not all surf spots are the same. You should do some research to find out what types of waves are common in the area, to figure out what area is friendly for beginners to take the time to learn about where you are going. Areas that have many rocks are going to have bigger waves, calm areas are better for new surfers, and more. You could also engage with a surf resort-like Hollow Trees Resort which has some great surf spots around it. Whether you are a beginner or an expert surfer, you will find waves for all levels in the Mentawai.
Related blogs: Learn the best tips and tricks for enhancing and preserving your surfing experiences. Tips from the Experts: Surfing Equipment Maintenance and Storage
