Learn How to Surf

The two basic steps in surfing are Paddling and Standing up. The surfboards are designed in such a way that they would float on the water. The technique of surfing is that the surfboard must remain over the water in the same way as it would be without the surfer's weight. The only difference would be that the surfboard dips lower in the water.

Learn to surf
Initially, one must know the method of successfully catching a wave. This is achieved by paddling.

Paddling
Paddling must be done at approximately the same speed as that of the incoming wave. A surfboard can be paddled wherever there is water. While paddling, lift the head and bend the arms at the elbow at nearly 90 degrees. Cup the hands and flick the wrist. Move the arm past the hip. This point is the power of the paddle. The wave can be caught successfully by a couple of paddles.

Initially, paddling has to be practiced in a swimming pool or a river. First, it is necessary to balance on the surfboard and complete one paddle before beginning the next one. As the paddle speed increases, it would enable to catch the beach waves quickly. After 20 paddles, a rest of one minute is essential. This pattern must be repeated till there is weariness. Continuous practice in a swimming pool or river must be coupled by observation of good surfers. Novices must strive to imitate these veterans. Then, when the surfing day would arrive, the novices would be better equipped for wave catching.

Standing up
To learn Standing up, the surfer has to practice 100 meters running starts. Initially, he must lie on the floor. Then, press the floor using the hands and climb up. Further, a race start must be done. This routine has to be repeated ten times.

Stance
The Stance is the most crucial part of surfing. The surfer must remember to crouch low as frequently as possible. The surfer has to point towards the intended direction. While standing up, the hip must be rotated. If the surfer intends to turn, it is essential to crouch and rotate the hip in the desired direction. If the surfer wishes to cut across the wave face, it is required to steer the surfboard with the hands and then point towards the required direction. If the surfer stays low, all the above mentioned processes take place in a smooth as well as stable manner and coupled with speed.

How to surf safely

• one should never jump in front or at the back of the surfboard, as it may dash
• while falling in the water, the head must not first enter the water. A surfer has to fall on the feet or with the hands at the front
• supposing the surfer falls accidentally, the eyes must be protected with the hands
• the surfer has to use the peripheral vision so that any collision does not take place with other surfers
• the surfer has to be alert regarding the approaching waves
• in case a rogue wave approaches, the surfer has to push the surfboard away to a side and dive under the wave. This avoids any impact
• the surfer must break any fall by employing his hands to protect the neck and spine
• the surfer has to climb on the board from the side using the hands and also climb off similarly. This movement resembles getting on and off a horse
• the board must never be placed between the surfer and the coming waves
• beginners may have a leg rope or a leash attached to the surfboard. A safety nose guard is also mandatory

While learning surfing, the surfer has to bear in mind that one who is closest to the surfing wave has the right to move on that wave. If somebody else paddles for this wave, it can be dangerous.