Learning the Art of Surfing - Beginner Surfing Tips

Before running out and buying your first surfboard and heading out into the wild surf. One may want to read and learn about the art of surfing. I started surfing in the 70s and was fortunate to have a good back ground, I was on the swim team and actually had been swimming since I was 4 years old. I am very comfortable in the water I can tread water for over an hour in the ocean. What I am saying is I am a good swimmer and on top of that I have common sense.

Before you even think of surfing, learn the local conditions. Learn the tides the currents and the winds. These days that is pretty easy with the internet. Learn to swim very well. I can remember dozens of kids that thought they could just go out and surf when even experienced surfers were having trouble managing the waves currents and winds. Yes some places are easier to learn and much safer. Learn to surf at that break before you try any advanced surf spots. My first few Hawaiian winters I couldn't make it out in the big surf so I stayed on the shore break with the kids. Some would think this to be humiliating but when you are dealing with a 15 ft. shore break, that was plenty enough for me. Know your limitations and always surf with a friend. If you cant swim for a long ways get into better shape before you start surfing. By running, swimming, biking or maybe jumping rope.

OK your are in pretty good shape you are confidant that you can swim for a ways with out your surfboard. You might be ready? I recommend that you use a soft top board, so if you get hit in the head it wont knock you out. Analyze and choose the correct day where you feel comfortable going out in the water. Obviously look at the water check for sharks and remember when you enter the water you have just become part of the food chain! I am serious!

Have respect for the other surfers and swimmers in the water try to stay away from them if you are unable to have total control of your surfboard. Do not litter the beach,most surfers will take offense to you throwing your trash on their beach and may not welcome you the next time you decide that you want to surf. All in all learning to surf can be a great experience if you use common sense. The beach is a great place to meet people. Last but not least get some lessons from someone in your area that has a successful track record of teaching beginner surfers! So lets go surfing!