Newstricky| Surfing is a fun, active pastime that thousands of people across the world do daily. It’s also a professional sport that has changed in the last hundred years.
Around 60% of all surfers are over the age of 25, and 40% are between the ages of 1 and 24. However, surfing has no age limit!
Surfers know what to look for and have techniques that keep them safe. But sometimes, surfers still end up in trouble. Common surfing mistakes put surfers in harm’s way and often cause injuries.
In this article, we’ll go through the most common mistakes surfers make and how to avoid them.
Table of Contents
Don’t Underestimate the Power of the Ocean
Ocean surfing is a powerful force and can be very dangerous. Beginner surfers should always be aware of their surroundings and be cautious of the waves.
Also, improper equipment is being used. It’s risky to use the improper board or not wear a leash. Beginner surfers should always consult with an experienced surfer before going out into the water.
Paddle Out Beyond the Breaking Waves
It’s important to prevent common blunders that might result in catastrophic harm when paddling out to catch a wave. Paddling into a breaking wave might destroy your board and throw you off balance.
Always paddle out beyond the breaking waves. Keep an eye out for other surfers and allow them plenty of room. Always keep an eye out for approaching waves and paddle around rather than through them.
To get up your speed when paddling for a wave, make sure to paddle strong and fast. To prevent being smacked by your board, keep your arms close to your body and tuck your chin.
Remember to have fun while being safe!
Choose Your Wave
Paddling for a wave that is too big will result in getting caught inside and being pounded by the waves. Paddling for a wave that is too small will result in sitting on your best surfboard waiting for a wave to come.
Not popping up quickly enough will result in being trapped within or not making it over the wave.
Be Patient and Wait for the Right Moment
Many surfers try to paddle out as soon as they see a wave, but this often leads to them getting caught in the white water and not making it to the outside. It is important to be patient, wait for a lull in the waves, and then paddle out when it is safe.
This can lead to you surfing into someone or something and getting injured. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings and know where you are going surfing.
If you’re searching for someone to educate you, research some websites like https://www.pacificsurf.com/, they usually provide one-of-a-kind surf packages with a variety of activities. This wonderful holiday surf package is a great opportunity for you to learn how to surf.
Know Your Limits in Surfing
If you want to avoid the most common surfing mistakes, then make sure to practice, stay aware of your surroundings, and be cautious when entering unknown waters. By following these simple tips, you can stay safe and enjoy your time surfing.
Reaching a high level in surfing comes through consistent practice and dedication. Use our tips to get more out of your surfing each time, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques as you feel ready.
For more inspiration, make sure to check out more of our posts.
Go big or go home
No, we’re not talking about the size of the waves, but the size of your board. Many beginner surfers often make the mistake of choosing a board that is much too small to start with. You might think that walking down the beach with a 9-meter foamie board screams ‘foamie’, but it’s actually the other way around. Experienced surfers can spot a beginner surfer from a distance who has an inadequate board, and a smaller board with less volume will be harder to paddle and therefore you will catch fewer waves. In this case, you will be disappointed and will probably throw it all away on the first day!
Before you start thinking about buying a board, read our guide to buying a board.
You can’t bear the weight while riding
If you don’t shift your weight while riding, the wave will simply go under your feet, similar to the example above. The correct weight distribution is best understood by observing a trained longboarder. They are elegantly cross-stepping the board to speed up the ride and stepping back to slow down. The whole concept is to stay just ahead of the breaking part of the wave. On a short board, riders will ride their board just slightly forward, but with their weight on the front foot, rising and falling on the wave surface to build speed. When a shortboarder wants to slow down to stop in a barrel or make a turn, he puts his weight on his back foot. You don’t have to be an accomplished longboard cross stepper or an experienced shortboarder to do this. If you are on a longboard, you simply walk on the board to get back and forth. If you’re on a shortboard, practice how to ride the inside rail into the face of the wave, then come down and build speed.
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