Once you’ve started your surfing journey, you’ve built a strong foundation by learning the first steps of surfing; popping up, turning your board, riding the white water waves, you’ll be ready to learn more advanced techniques. It’s time to learn paddling techniques and navigate safely to the lineup to practice catching green waves under the guidance of our surf guides.
This can be daunting with all those breaking waves in front of you. But with the right techniques, a bit of practice, and these steps you’ll be paddling out like a pro in no time!
As a newbie surfer, starting at the right surf spot is important. Look for beaches with gentle, consistent waves and a sandy bottom. This will make it easier for you to paddle out, catch waves, and practice your pop-up. Avoid crowded spots, especially when you’re just starting out.
At Surf School In Bali, we’ve got the perfect spot for beginners: Double Six Beach in Seminyak. This beach offers consistent, gentle waves and a sandy bottom, making it ideal for learning to surf!
Before you dive into the water, it’s essential to be prepared for your session and to read and observe the ocean and its waves. Understanding the conditions of your surf spot will help you make the right choice on where to paddle out and where to position yourself in the ocean. Start with checking what kind of break you will be surfing, is it a sandy bottom where the peak is usually moving? Or will you be surfing on reefs where the waves are breaking in the same area? See if there is a channel, a deeper part of the ocean where the waves are not breaking. This allows you to paddle out more easily.
The currents are another crucial factor to consider before paddling out. Take note of the strength and direction of the stream. Speak with lifeguards, surf guides, or other surfers to learn more about the local currents. There are three types of currents in surfing:
Knowing how currents affect your paddle out will help you plan it more effectively, save energy, and stay safe.
Paddling efficiently is key to navigating the lineup. Try to use strong, deliberate strokes to move yourself forward. Keep your arms straight, your back flat, your core engaged and your head forward. As you paddle, focus on your technique and try to find a nice rhythm. Avoid paddling with your arms bent, and your back arched, or paddle too fast, as this will waste energy for catching waves later. Every paddle counts, so make them count!
When you’re trying to paddle out and a white water wave is approaching, a turtle roll can be your rescue. This technique means that you’re lying face down on your board, tucking your head, and rolling onto your back while holding on to your board. Once the wave rolls over your board, you can turn around again and lie back on your surfboard. This surf technique will help you navigate safely under the wave, and help avoid a potentially painful wipeout where your board is flying everywhere.
Once you are paddling out, try and observe the lineup. This is the area where surfers wait for waves. It’s important to understand the surf etiquette of the lineup to avoid bumping into another surfer and ensure a smooth surf session. ALWAYS paddle around the line where other surfers are riding the waves and keep your head up while paddling. As a beginner, it’s best to position yourself on the outside of the lineup, where the waves are a bit smaller and where it’s less crowded. While waiting on a wave, watch other surfers, smile and then rock it when it’s your turn to catch a wave!
Are you ready to paddle out there? By knowing how to paddle out, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident surfer. Practice makes perfect, so get out there and have fun!
Join our 5-day learn-to-surf program, where you’ll learn all the basics as a beginner surfer. Our experienced surf guides will help you through the basics of paddling out and help you improve your surfing skills.
Ready to catch your first wave? Book your surf lesson today!
