Learning to surf from 0 // How to start surfing

Types of surfboards:

¿which one is right for you? : . Choosing the right surfboard is essential to learn surfing techniques correctly and avoid injuries.

How to start surfing?

Tips for choosing the right surfboard

Choosing the right surfboard is critical to getting the most out of your surfing experience. There are several factors to consider when selecting your board, and here are some useful tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Skill level: It’s important to consider your skill level when choosing a surfboard. If you are a beginner, opt for a larger, more stable board that will provide you with greater buoyancy and ease of paddling. As you gain more experience, you can move up to shorter, more maneuverable boards.
2. Type of wave: Consider the type of waves you plan to surf most often. If you frequent small, gentle waves, a longer, wider board may be appropriate. For faster, more powerful waves, you may opt for a shorter, narrower board that allows for quick maneuvers.
3. Size and weight: Your weight and height also play an important role in your choice of surfboard. The heavier you are, you may need a board with more volume to maintain adequate buoyancy. If you are lighter, a board with less volume may be more maneuverable.
4. Board shape: Surfboards come in different shapes, such as funboards, fishboards, shortboards and longboards. Each shape has its own characteristics and benefits. Research the available shapes and choose one that fits your preferences and surfing style.
5.  Professional advice: If you have questions or need additional guidance, don’t hesitate to consult with a more experienced surfer or a professional at a surf store. They will be able to give you personalized recommendations according to your needs and goals.

Remember that choosing the right surfboard can make all the difference to your surfing progress and enjoyment. Take your time to research, try out different boards and seek expert advice before making your final decision, good luck and have fun surfing in Tenerife South!

SURFBOARDS FOR BEGINNERS:

• Softboard: Foam core surfboards, also known as softboards, are the most popular choice for beginners. These boards are safer and more stable than conventional boards, making them ideal for learning to surf. In addition, these boards are more economical and durable than conventional boards.
• Mini Malibu: Mini Malibu boards are a popular choice for beginners due to their length and stability. These boards measure between 7 and 8 feet long and have a considerable width and thickness, which makes them more stable. Mini malibus are more maneuverable than foam boards and offer a better surfing experience for beginners.
• Longboard: Longboard surfboards are a good choice for beginners because of their length and stability. These boards are 9 to 10 feet long and have considerable width and thickness. Longboards are easier to paddle and safer in the water, making them ideal for beginners.
  When choosing a surfboard for beginners, it’s important to consider your skill level, your size and weight, and the type of waves you’ll be surfing. Foam surfboards, mini malibus and longboards are popular and recommended choices for beginners because of their stability and ease of use. Remember, the right surfboard is the one that suits your needs and makes you feel comfortable in the water – enjoy your surfing experience and keep learning!
  (RECOMMENDATION): I recommend you to rent a board either with our school or with any other, you can do it by clicking here as these boards are very expensive and to start with 1 week with the big big board will be enough for you to start getting fluent, and then move to one more suitable to your weight and height. We already have our surfboard and now what?

• Choosing your wetsuit:

  I could write a couple of pages more about the types of wetsuits, sizes … but you know that in this article you will find only what you need to learn to surf from 0, and this information is not needed (for now).well, the right wetsuit varies depending on your weight and height, as we have also seen with your surfboard, not because we wear a material or another we will be more pros, I leave here a size guide:

Once you have identified your size, you must ask yourself a question: Where are you going to start surfing, is the water cold or warm? Well here is a big dilemma because depending on the water temperature you should buy a wetsuit or another but what if I travel that wetsuit no longer serves me? Yes, it will be useful, the only thing that will give you warmth or cold if the water is warmer or colder. Types of wetsuits; 5/4, 4/3, 3/2, 2/3, the 5/4 is for colder waters and the 2/3 for warmer waters, then the decision is up to you (RECOMMENDATION): having traveled a lot and having used many wetsuits, my recommendation is that you have two, but as you are starting I recommend a 4/3 as it is the most versatile, it will protect you from the cold and you will not be too hot if the water is very warm.

HAVE A LEASH:

the leash or invention is the last thing we need to have all the necessary material and be able to start surfing! The leash is the cable that connects your foot to your surfboard, is what will make every time you fall you are close to your surfboard and you do not have to go to the shore every time you fall.

Learning to row correctly

Paddling is a fundamental skill in surfing, as it allows you to move through the water and catch the waves. Here are some tips to learn how to paddle properly:

1. Body position: When you are on the surfboard, lie face down with your chest in the center of the board and your hands on the edges. Keep your legs extended and your feet slightly raised behind you.

2. Correct grip: Grasp the edges of the board with your palms facing down and your fingers slightly curved. Keep your fingers together for better control.

3. Symmetrical paddling: Perform symmetrical paddling movements with both arms. Extend your arms forward and dip your hands into the water at the same time. Then, bring your hands back to your hips, applying gentle pressure on the water.

4. Use of the shoulders: Effective paddling involves both arms and shoulders. Don’t just move your arms, but your shoulders as well. Use the momentum of the shoulders to assist in the movement of the arms.

5. Continuous motion: The stroke should be a continuous, fluid motion. Avoid pauses or sudden movements that may slow you down.

6. Proper breathing: During the stroke, turn your head to one side to inhale and exhale to the other side. This will allow you to breathe efficiently while maintaining stability on the board.

7. Watching the horizon: Keep your eyes on the horizon while paddling. This will help you maintain balance and orientation in the water.

8. Practice regularly: Paddling is a skill that improves with constant practice. Spend time regularly to practice paddling, even out of the water, simulating dry strokes.

How to stand up on the surfboard

Once you’ve paddled out and caught a wave, the next step is to learn how to stand up on the surfboard. Here are some tips on how to do it:

1. Proper position: When you feel the wave propel you, place your hands in the center of the board, close to your shoulders. Keep your knees bent and feet together, ready for the next step.

2. Quick motion: In a quick, fluid motion, push up with your hands while bringing your feet forward. In one motion, place your feet in the correct position on the board.

3. Correctly positioned feet: Feet should be parallel to each other, with toes pointing toward the front of the board. Place them close to the edges to maintain balance.

4. Low center of gravity: Keep your center of gravity low by bending your knees slightly. This will help you have more stability and control on the board.

5. Forward gaze: Look straight ahead, not at your feet. This will help you maintain balance and orientation while surfing the wave.

6. Arms extended: Extend your arms out to the sides or forward to maintain balance and improve stability. The arms will also help you make subtle adjustments during the ride.

7. Practice timing: Proper timing is critical to standing up at the right time. As you gain experience, you will learn to feel the energy of the wave and anticipate the perfect moment to stand up.

TAKE-OFF TECHNIQUE:

we are ready to start surfing. Practice this technique on the ground, I could explain it to you in writing but I know it would not be clear, so I leave here a video that explains it very well. pincha aqui If you are not familiar with this technique, if not, search a little more on Youtube and you will find many videos, after watching the videos, practice this technique on the ground, even if you do not have a surfboard yet, practice on the ground, let them record you and then compare the movements.

Tips for maintaining balance on the surfboard

Keeping your balance on the surfboard is essential to be able to enjoy a good surf session. Here are some useful tips to help you keep your balance while surfing:

1. Proper posture: Maintain a balanced posture with feet parallel and shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slightly and keep your center of gravity low.

2. Weight distribution: Learn to distribute your weight properly on the board. Keep your weight centered and avoid carrying yourself too far to the front or back, as this can throw you off balance.

3. Use of your arms: Use your arms to help you maintain your balance. Extend your arms slightly out to the sides or forward to counteract any imbalance.

4. Subtle movements: Make subtle, smooth movements with your body to maintain balance on the board. Learn to anticipate changes in the wave and adjust your posture and weight accordingly.

5. Focus on a fixed point: Keep your eyes on a fixed point on the horizon. This will help you keep your balance and maintain your orientation on the board.

6. Learn to read the waves: The ability to read the waves will help you anticipate movements and adjust your balance according to changing conditions.

7. Practice balance out of the water: Do balance exercises out of the water to strengthen your stabilizing muscles. You can try yoga, balance board training or any other exercise that will help you improve your stability.

8. Stay calm: Stay calm and confident. Stress and tension can affect your balance. Relax, breathe deeply and enjoy the moment.

Techniques for surfing a wave

Surfing a wave successfully requires technical skills and knowledge of the sea. Here are some fundamental techniques to get the most out of every wave:

1. Efficient paddling: Efficient paddling will allow you to catch more waves. Use symmetrical paddling movements, push with your arms and use your shoulders to generate power and speed through the water.

2. Proper positioning: Before the wave arrives, you must be in the proper position. Watch the wave pattern and look for the place where the waves break with the most power. Paddle to that spot to be ready to catch the wave.

3. Paddling at the right time: As you feel the wave propel you, take a few last strong paddles and stand up quickly. The right timing is crucial to be able to surf the wave from start to finish.

4. Smooth take-off: When standing up, be sure to do it smoothly and fluidly. Keep your eyes forward and avoid looking down. Distribute your weight evenly on the board and keep your knees bent.

5. Reading the wave: Learn to read the wave while you are on it. Watch the section that forms and adjust your line to take advantage of the best part of the wave. As you go, make adjustments to your stance and direction as the wave requires.

6. Performing maneuvers: Once you’re on the wave, you can experiment with different maneuvers. Try turns, bottom turns, cutbacks and other basic maneuvers to maximize your fun on the wave.

7. Balance and stability: Maintain balance and stability at all times. Distribute your weight properly and adjust your posture according to the movements of the wave. Stay focused and be receptive to changes in the sea.

8. Exiting the wave: When you feel the wave is losing energy, look for a safe exit. Paddle into the channel or to an area where the waves are breaking with less force. Avoid falling into the impact of the wave.

Safety and rules in the water:

Surely this step will be the most boring, but it is super important to respect people in the water, those who know and those who do not, I leave here an image of the basic preferences in surfing:

To sum up. the main preferences in surfing are : if a person is closer to the peak (area where the wave begins to break) has the preference, only if it goes in your direction, if it goes to the right you can go to the left, but you have to have good skills to identify it, also if you are entering the area of breaker, you have to do it from the side, surrounding the area where the waves break because if not, you will get in the way of the surfer and you can have a displeasure, and finally communication, think that there will always be someone waiting for your wave, if you do not arrive, warn! !

How to read sea conditions

CLICK ON THIS LINK TO ACCESS TO ALL INFORMATION:HOW TO READ THE WAVES

To be an effective surfer, it is crucial to be able to read the sea conditions. Here are some important things to keep in mind when reading sea conditions:

1. Watch the waves: Before entering the water, take some time to observe the sea and the waves. Look at the size, shape and frequency of the waves. Observe how they are breaking on different sections of the beach.

2. Analyze the swell: Pay attention to the direction and size of the swell. The swell is the energy of the waves propagating from their place of origin. Find out the direction of the swell and how it will affect the waves on the beach where you are.

3. Study the tide: The tide plays an important role in wave formation. Learn how to read the tides and how they affect the wave characteristics at your surf spot. Some beaches have better conditions at high tide, while others work better at low tide.

4. Observe the shape of the waves: Notice how the waves form and break. Some waves may break in a tube shape, while others may be more suitable for maneuvering. Evaluate whether the waves are fast and powerful or slower and gentler.

5. Analyze the wind: The wind can have a big impact on the quality of the waves. Look at the direction and strength of the wind. In general, an offshore wind (wind blowing out to sea) creates cleaner and better quality conditions, while an onshore wind (wind blowing from the sea towards the coast) can generate choppy waves.

6. Watch the currents: Pay attention to currents in the water. Watch for side currents or rip currents that may affect your surfing. Make sure you know the local currents and how to surf safely.

7. Consult information sources: Use reliable sources of information on sea conditions, such as online surf reports or specialized apps. These sources can provide you with accurate data on wave size, tide and wind in real time.

Tips for practicing on a safe beach

When it comes to surfing, it’s important to prioritize safety at all times. Here are some tips for practicing on a safe beach:

1. Research the beach: Before you go surfing, research the beach where you plan to surf. Find out about sea conditions, currents and specific hazards that may exist in that area.

2. Choose beaches that are appropriate for your level: Choose beaches that are suitable for your skill level. Beaches with softer, smaller waves are ideal for beginners, while more experienced surfers can look for beaches with more challenging waves.

3. Surf with company: It is always advisable to surf with other surfers. Having someone nearby can be a great help in case of an emergency or if you need assistance in the water.

4. Know your limits: Recognize your abilities and don’t venture into surfing in conditions that are beyond your level. As you progress, you will be able to face bigger and more challenging waves.

5. Use safety equipment: Always use proper safety equipment. This includes a surfboard in good condition, a leash for the board and, in some cases, a life jacket.

6. Learn the rules of surfing: Familiarize yourself with the rules and etiquette of surfing. Respect each surfer’s turn and avoid interfering with other surfers’ waves. Maintain an attitude of respect and courtesy towards other surfers.

7. Study the currents and tides: Learn about the currents and tides at the beach where you will be surfing. Understanding how they work will help you avoid dangerous situations and take better advantage of the conditions.

8. Maintain good physical condition: Surfing requires good physical condition. Do exercises that strengthen your body, especially the muscles of your arms, legs and trunk. This will help you maintain balance and react properly in the water.

9. Listen to the locals: If you are surfing in a new place, listen to the advice of local surfers. They know the specifics of the area and can provide valuable information about sea conditions and potential hazards.

10. Be aware of changing conditions: Remember that sea conditions can change rapidly. Stay alert and be aware of any changes in weather, wind or sea conditions. If conditions become dangerous, it is best to retreat and surf at another time.

How to improve your surfing skills

If you want to improve your surfing skills and take your level to the next level, here are some useful tips:

1. Surf regularly: Constant practice is key to improvement. Spend time regularly surfing and familiarize yourself with different wave conditions. The more time you spend in the water, the more comfortable you will feel and the faster you will progress.

2. Watch and learn: Watch more experienced surfers and learn from them. Watch how they position themselves in the wave, their paddling technique, their style and maneuvers. Pay attention to details and try to apply what you learn to your own surfing.

3. Work on your paddling: Paddling is a fundamental skill in surfing. Practice specific exercises to strengthen the muscles used in paddling, such as your arms, shoulders and back. A stronger paddle will allow you to catch more waves and get more out of each session.

4. Focus on balance: Balance is essential in surfing. Do exercises out of the water to improve your balance, such as yoga, Pilates or balance board training. You can also practice balancing on the board on dry land before entering the water.

5. Work on your take-off technique: A good take-off will allow you to stand up quickly and smoothly on the board. Practice the take-off in different wave conditions and focus on doing it smoothly and efficiently.

6. Experiment with different types of waves: Don’t limit yourself to one type of wave. Look for different types of waves to improve your skills in different conditions. Try surfing small waves, big waves, wall waves, tube waves, among others. Each type of wave will challenge you differently and help you grow as a surfer.

7. Keep a positive attitude: Surfing can be challenging, but keep a positive attitude and persevere. Don’t get discouraged by mistakes or falls. Every session in the water is an opportunity to learn and improve.

8. Film and analyze your surfing: Record your surf sessions and analyze your videos. Watch your technique, identify areas of improvement and work on them. You can ask other surfers for feedback or even hire a surf instructor for personalized advice.

9. Practice other disciplines: In addition to surfing, practice other disciplines that can complement your surfing, such as skateboarding, snowboarding or dry training. These activities will help you improve your balance, coordination and maneuvering skills.

10. Have fun and enjoy: Don’t forget that surfing is a fun sport and you should enjoy it. Have fun in the water, celebrate your accomplishments and keep a positive attitude. Progress will come with time and dedication.

    REVIEW THESE STEPS AND GET SURFING.