First time surfing? Take a surfing lesson!
Many beginners might be tempted to grab a board, head to the beach, and figure it out as they go. While there’s a sense of adventure in that approach, it can also lead to frustration and a slower learning curve- trust me, I’ve been there. For your first time surfing, my top tip is to take a surfing lesson.
Here’s why a surfing lesson should be your number one priority for your first time surfing:
5 reasons to take a surfing lesson your first time surfing
1. Safety first
Surfing, like any water sport, comes with risks. A professional instructor can teach you how to navigate the waves safely, read the ocean’s currents, and avoid potential hazards. They’ll also ensure you know how to handle your board in various situations, which is crucial for yours’ and others’ safety.
2. Learn proper technique
Learning to surf isn’t just about standing on a board; it’s about balance, paddling, timing, and wave selection. A surfing lesson provides you with the fundamental techniques to get you up and riding faster, and with more control.
3. Get equipment guidance
Understanding the what is the right surfboard, wetsuit, and other gear for your skill level and local conditions is crucial. In a lesson, you’ll get recommendations tailored to your specific needs, saving you from making costly mistakes. You can learn more about beginner surfing equipment in this post.
4. Ensure efficient progress and get a confidence boost
Surfing can be challenging, and frustration can set in quickly if you’re not progressing. A qualified instructor will give you immediate feedback, helping you correct mistakes and improve, which can be a game-changer for your learning curve. In addition to that, a surfing lesson boosts your confidence. Knowing you have the guidance of an experienced instructor can help calm those pre-surf jitters and keep you focused on having fun.
5. Find people to surf with
Surfing lessons aren’t just about riding waves; they’re also about making new friends who love the ocean as much as you do. So, taking a lesson is your ticket to meeting fellow beginner surfers that you can bond with and learn to surf together with.