Surf’s Up!
Finally, decided to start your surfing journey? Great! Learning to surf is an exciting adventure, and just as any sport or activity, it takes time, knowledge and dedication to become better. These top 10 beginner surfing tips will help you on the path to a successful and enjoyable surf adventure and make sure you’ll have a safe and relaxed experience on the waves!
As a beginner surfer, it’s important to set realistic goals and to start small. It’s easy to look at the pro surfers and long for those big waves and barrels. However, trying to paddle out and catch waves in conditions for surfers above your current surf level will not only be really frustrating and give your confidence a kick in the butt, it can also lead to dangerous situations.
So start with smaller, forgiving waves, use the right board and focus on getting better in the basics like paddling, popping up, and balancing on your board. As you gain confidence and master these manoeuvres, you can gradually progress to bigger waves and more challenging moves. While you’re enjoying your surf sessions you can start setting realistic goals, so you’ll improve faster and gain confidence in the water.
As a newbie to the surfing game, picking the right suitable surf spot is crucial. Look for beginner-friendly surf spots with gentle white water waves, a sandy bottom and no current. Also try to avoid crowded surf spots to minimise the risk of collisions and to have all the space to try, fall off your board, try again and ride the wave!
At the Surf School in Bali, we always surf at the great beginner surf spot Double Six in Seminyak featuring perfect and consistent white-water waves with a sandy bottom – the ideal conditions for beginners.
Make sure you match your surfboard size with your ability, and as a beginner you should always opt for a soft-top surfboard. These boards are covered in a soft, foam exterior, making them safer, more durable, and easier to balance, paddle and control your board.
Generally, the size of beginner boards range from 7 to 9 feet. A larger and thicker board offers more stability and buoyancy, making it easier to paddle, pop up and catch waves.
As you progress and spend some time in the water, you can always consider upgrading to a harder-top surfboard, such as a funboard or shortboard, but for now, a soft-top is your best friend!
Investing in surf lessons can significantly level up your learning curve. A surf instructor can provide personalised guidance, correct your technique, and boost your confidence. They can teach you the fundamentals, such as paddling, popping up, and wave selection, and help you avoid common beginner mistakes.
By learning from our local experts, you’ll gain valuable insights into the local surf spots, wave conditions, surf slang, and surf etiquette. Our guides will share their tips and tricks to help you ride waves like a pro!
Like any other sport or game, surfing has its own set of rules, also known as surf etiquettes. Understanding and following these are important for a safe and enjoyable surf session. For Example, before you are ready to join the line-up, it’s important to know who has priority on the wave. Another important rule is to never drop in on other surfers. This happens if you are taking off on a wave where someone else is already on. Respect for all the surfers in the water and for the ocean is also crucial.
Your surf guide can help you with this unwritten set of rules, and observe and ask other more experienced surfers for tips. By understanding and following the surf etiquette you’ll not only avoid conflicts and collisions but also create a positive, safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone in the water.
Before you even think about catching bigger waves, it’s important to feel comfortable and relaxed in the water. The ocean is beautiful, but it’s also a powerful force of nature, especially with the ever changing currents and tides. Get used to the water, try to understand the ocean and never surf alone to stay safe.
Surfing is as much about mental preparation as it is about physical skill. By overcoming your fear of the ocean and familiarising yourself with the waves, currents, swells and tides, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident surfer!
We all get excited about surfing, and it’s easy to want to spend all day in the water. However, it’s important to know your limits and listen to your body. Don’t push yourself too hard, especially as a beginner. Start with smaller waves and gradually progress as your skills improve.
Surfing can also be physically demanding, so make sure you’re eating well, getting enough rest, and incorporating gentle yoga or stretching into your routine. This will help prevent common surf injuries and keep you performing at your best.
Avoid surfing in dangerous conditions, such as large waves or strong currents and always prioritise safety for others and yourself, and choose surf spots that match your skill level. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Even though you’ll probably spend most of your time in the water, hydration is key! Surfing can be physically demanding, especially in warm climates, and it’s essential to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration or heatstroke. Drink plenty of water before, and after your surf session and make sure you also eat a filling meal.
Make sure to protect your skin from the sun’s rays by using a waterproof sunscreen or zinc with a high SPF. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or towelling off. At Surf School In Bali, you’ll receive a rashguard that helps to protect your skin from sunburn and saltwater/surfboard irritation.
Before you paddle out, take a few minutes to prepare your body. A quick warm-up routine can help prevent injuries and improve your performance during your surf session. Your body needs to be ready for the action! Try some dynamic stretches like arm circles, lunches, and torso twists. You can also do some light cardio, such as jogging or jumping jacks and another beginner surf tip is to practise a few pop-ups on dry land.
A warm body is a happy body! So, take a few minutes to prepare your body and mind for the physical impact of surfing.
Surfing is supposed to be fun and relaxing! Don’t get too caught up in trying to perfect every wave you take or impress other people. Enjoy the process of learning and celebrate all your wins, no matter how small they may seem. Be patient with yourself. Progress takes time and you won’t be a pro surfer overnight, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Keep practising and trying, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you improve.
So, most importantly, have lots of fun! Surfing is a great way to connect with nature, relieve stress, and make new friends. So go out there, catch some waves, and enjoy the ride!
Ready to put these tips into practice? Join our 5-day learn to surf program, where you’ll learn all the basics as a beginner surfer. We’ll guide you through everything from understanding wave conditions to mastering the pop-up. Book your surf journey today and get ready to ride Bali’s waves!
