Surfing is a sport that requires time, patience, and a lot of practice. Standing up on a surfboard and riding waves may seem simple, but you need to learn several techniques and, most importantly, avoid some common mistakes that many beginners make. If you’re just starting out, don’t worry making mistakes is part of the process! Here’s a list of the most frequent mistakes and how you can avoid them to improve.
- Not Warming Up Before Surfing.
One of the most common mistakes. Surfing demands a lot of physical effort, especially in the core, shoulders, and back muscles. Not warming up can increase the risk of injury. Spend at least 10 minutes stretching and moving your joints before surfing. This will improve your performance and prevent future injuries. - Using the Wrong Surfboard.
Choosing the right surfboard is crucial, and many beginners make the mistake of using boards that are too small. Surfboards with more volume offer greater stability and buoyancy, making paddling and balance easier. We recommend starting with a larger, more stable board. - Paddling Incorrectly.
Paddling makes up 80% of surfing. It’s key for catching waves and positioning yourself correctly on your board. For good paddling, keep your back straight, chest lifted, and shoulders back. When paddling, extend your arms fully to maximize the strength of each stroke. - The “Take Off’ or Standing Up.
The moment of standing up on the board is one of the most critical in surfing. A common mistake is trying to stand up too quickly. For a proper take-off, make sure your hands are under your shoulders, lock your elbows, and use your arms to push yourself up. Place your back foot first, at the rear of the board, with your knee slightly bent. Then, place your front foot at a 45° angle and keep your hips turned for better stability. - Arm and Gaze Control.
The position of your arms and where you’re looking help you maintain balance and control over your board. Keep your arms relaxed and aligned with your body.
Also, remember that your gaze is like the rudder of a boat: wherever you look, your board will go. Always look in the direction you want to go! - Not Observing the Ocean Before Entering.
Taking a moment to observe the ocean before entering is one of the most important aspects and can make all the difference. It’s essential to pay attention to currents, tides, reference points, and how the waves are breaking. Often, we make the mistake of rushing in without spending a few minutes reading the ocean, which can be the difference between a smooth session and one filled with unexpected challenges.
For more tips, follow us on social media. We look forward to seeing you at Lanzasurf to enjoy the waves together in Famara!
