After lessons I am often asked How Beginner Surfers Get Better. There are several ways to get better. They begin with getting in the water as often as possible. Reading about surfing techniques. Watching video of surfers. Asking surfers about new techniques. And watching good surfers.
When I began anew 12 years ago, I always had a plan of what I would work on for the day. I wanted to have fun, but I also wanted improvements. I would then watch other surfers do what I wanted to work on. The visual was helpful. The better I got, the more I could see.
The Basics of Improving Beginner Surfing
The physical aspects of surfing are important. For those who can surf several times a week, the physical aspects evolve automatically. For those who can’t visit the water often, there is cross training.
The most important first step in improving surfing is the pop up. It has to be smooth and accurate. I teach beginners to put their rear foot on the board first and then the front foot. Advanced surfers pop with both feet at the same time. This takes surf specific muscles and coordination.
The problem most progressing surfers have is their stance on the surfboard. The hips and shoulders should be square to the front and not with a shoulder back like snowboarders and skateboarders. If a hand is dropping to the rear of the board, it puts the surfers butt over a rail. This puts pressure on the heels and causes the surfer to fall off the butt side of the board.
It is important surfers learn to release their hands to the upright position before the front foot hits the board in both the beginner and advanced pop up. If the hands are still on the surfboard when the front foot lands, the surfers head is in front of his toes and so he flies off the front of the surfboard.
The best cross training exercises for pop ups are pushups, burpies, squats, deadlifts, and planks. These create strength and flexibility in the hamstrings, buttocks, and lower back. The pop up is a power move and the muscles have to be trained for power. A push up is a traditional exercise. A push up with a hand clap is a power move. Professionals include plyometrics for power.
Finally, a surfer needs stamina. Paddling is the best exercise for stamina, but if you can’t get to the water often, other forms of aerobics can suffice. If intervals can be added, they are the best cardiovascular builder and calorie burner.
Have patience with your progress and try to do a little of everything.
Read Other Posts:
Beginner Surfers Learn on Soft Tops
5 Steps to Improve Surfing Performance
3 Ways to Catch Real Surfing Waves
Training to Ride the Surfing Short Board
Short Board Surfing Techniques
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