Want to learn how to surf? Here are some great surfing tips that will help you stay above water while you roll with the waves:
Balance Your Surfboard
The first thing you need to do is learn to balance on your board. If you lie too far back, the front of your board will pop up above the water. In surf term, this is called “corking” and it is a big no-no as you won’t be able to watch the waves when your board is corking. To prevent this, move up an inch at a time until your surfboard lies naturally in the water.
Remember not to move too far up though; if you do, your board’s nose will start dipping into the water. This is called “pearling”. When you find the ideal balance point, you can mark where your chin lies on the board with some wax or magic marker. It’s important to find the perfect balance so you can achieve maximum speed and minimum drag from water displacement.
Paddling
You might think it’s a good idea to paddle with both your arms simultaneously, but this will not work in the long run. Doing this will cause your board to speed up and slow down in the water, which will not allow you to maintain your speed. Instead of paddling with both arms at the same time, try the “crawl stroke” where you paddle with one arm and then the other. This will give you consistent speed and balance.
Sitting On Your Surfboard
The first time you try this, you might find it a little hard to maintain balance. The key is to remain calm and try to be as still as you possibly can. Once you’ve mastered the ability to remain calm and be still, you’ll find all your other surfing skills dramatically improve – you are well on your way.
Standing On Your Surfboard
Go into the “push-up” stance – put your palms facedown next to your chest on your board, then push your upper body up, and sweep your feet under you, (you may prefer to stand up one by one with your feet). Remember to keep low with your feet hip-width apart. Open your arms, and remember to always look up!
Want to learn how to surf in Bali? Join Pelan Pelan Bali, a surf and yoga retreat haven, just 10 minutes away from Canggu!