How to Prepare to Surf

The first thing that I normally do is check all my surfing equipment. Where I am going surfing and how big the waves are will determine the equipment that I choose. I choose the correct board for the correct surfing spot. Most people only have one surfboard.

Next, check out your surfboard for holes, cracks and or dings. Make sure you have a good power cord or leash. Make sure that it is attached properly to you surfboard. One time I was surfing bay front in Hawaii and I skipped checking my leash, the first wave I caught I wiped out and my surfboard ended up all the way on the shore. In this case the shore was about 3 quarters of a mile inland.

It took me a good hour to swim for my surfboard and when I got to the shore the kids were already surfing on it and had broken the fin. So just a word of warning. Check your equipment before getting into the water, Make sure your surfboard is waxed properly. If you have a traction pad make sure it is secure. I have forgotten to check my traction pad a few times and it got lost out to sea.

So you checked out your leash and the velcro stays on your ankle, the leash isn't frayed or just about ready to puke. You are still not ready to get into the water. I like to stretch before I go to the beach, but its probably better to warm up at the beach before you get into the water. I recommend stretching as much as you can.

I sit on the ground and take one of my legs over my knee. With one hand I hold the ankle, with the other I grasp the ankle and gently make a circular motion one way then the other. I have never had an ankle injury surfing and I believe this is why. I am sure you can find your own stretching routine and you will have less injuries also. I think stretching is one of the most over looked aspect of getting ready to surf. So stretch, limber up and rip!