If you’re just starting your surfing journey, mastering the pop-up is one of the most essential skills you’ll need. As a beginner surfer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything happening at once: paddling, timing the wave, staying balanced… But the pop-up – that quick transition from lying down to standing up – is at the core of it all.
In this surfboard pop-up guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to follow to get up confidently. Whether you’re taking your first surf lessons for beginners or practicing on your own, this guide is packed with beginner surfing tips to help you get started.
WHY THE POP-UP MATTERS
The surf pop up is more than just standing up on the board; it’s what sets the tone for your entire ride! A smooth, controlled pop-up can help you find your balance faster, stay centered on the board, and increase your chances of catching more waves. Choosing a good beginner surfboard also plays a big role in making that first stand-up feel smoother and more stable. And let’s be honest – nothing feels better than finally standing up for the first time.
STEP-BY-STEP: HOW TO POP UP ON A SURFBOARD
1. Paddle with purpose
Start by positioning yourself in the center of your board, lying flat with your feet together and your toes just touching the tail. Don’t open your legs – first of all, it doesn’t look elegant at all, and secondly, it will make you lose balance and speed. Paddle with purpose and rhythm as the wave approaches.
2. Feel the push
As the wave starts to lift you, you’ll feel the board gain speed. This is your cue – place your hands flat next to your chest, almost as if you’re about to do a push-up.
3. The push-up & pop
With one fluid motion, push your upper body off the board, engage your core, and bring your back foot forward between your hands. Your front foot follows quickly, landing under your chest.
4. Get into position
Once both feet are on the board, get into your surfing position – knees bent, back straight, eyes forward. Keep your weight centered and stay loose. This is key to maintaining balance.
Strength and stamina plays a key role in moments like these. Explore our 5 best surf exercises to boost endurance!
PRO TIPS FOR A STRONGER POP-UP
- Practice on land: Repetition builds muscle memory. Use a yoga mat at home or practice on soft sand to perfect your surf pop up technique before hitting the waves.
- Look where you want to go: Always keep your eyes on the horizon – not your feet!
- Stay low and relaxed: Bent knees absorb shocks and help you stay stable. Think of it as dancing with the wave, not fighting it.
- Use your back foot: A common beginner mistake is bringing the front foot forward first. For a stronger stance, try popping your back foot first – it gives you more control.
COMMON MISTAKES BEGINNERS SHOULD AVOID
- Hesitating during the pop-up
One of the biggest beginner mistakes is hesitating at the moment of the surf pop-up. That split-second pause can throw off your timing and balance. Commit to the movement—even if it’s not perfect yet. Hesitation leads to wipeouts, not progress.
- Stopping your paddle too early
Many beginners stop paddling just a bit too soon. Most of the time, all you needed were two more strong paddles, and you would’ve caught the wave. Keep going until the tail of your board lifts; that’s your signal.
- Tensing up when the wave approaches
Don’t panic or paddle like crazy the second you see a wave coming. Stay calm, breathe, and stay focused.
- Looking down instead of forward
The moment you look down at your board or feet, you’re setting yourself up to
fall. Always keep your eyes on the horizon. Where you look is where your body follows.
Conclusion
Learning how to surf pop up on a surfboard doesn’t happen overnight. It takes practice, patience, and being okay with falling – a lot. But every wipeout brings you one step closer to that perfect wave. When you learn to surf, it’s all about showing up, trying again, and celebrating the small wins along the way.
Every expert surfer was once a beginner, struggling with the same challenges. Trust the process, and remember: the ocean is the greatest teacher you’ll ever have, and at Hollow Tree’s Resort, it’s right at your doorstep. If you’re excited to hit the waves, you can easily rent a surfboard right here at the resort!
