Learn to Surf

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Olympic Swimmer, Duke Kahanamoku and fellow Hawaiian enthusiasts first introduced the rest of the world to Surfing in the early part of the 20th century. Ever since those first demonstrations, the rest of the world has been feverishly trying to catch up and arguably surpass the Polynesian practitioners at their own game. Surfing can be a fun, relaxing way to spend time in the ocean soaking up the sun’s rays while waiting for the perfect wave or, for many, a competitive, athletic activity. In either case, it takes practice and conditioning to be successful. Novice surfers must first learn how to read the waves, paddle out through the surf, understand and predict wave action and how to enter a wave before they can even think about standing up on the board. Once the ability to stand up on the board has been mastered then drop-ins, turns and maximization of a wave’s energy are requisite lessons that must be well-learned. The basics of surfing can be acquired from accomplished friends, at schools and surf camps in resort locations where the sport is popular or by trial and error anywhere there is dependable surf. Surf boards vary greatly in size and weight. Novices are advised to start off with boards that are “big and thick” as these provide the most stability before matriculating to lighter, more highly engineered boards that may be specially designed for particular surf conditions. Most resorts and beachfront surf schools also offer board rentals that are germane to the conditions in their location and will assist beginners with their needs. Wetsuits may also be necessary depending upon water temperatures. Surfing is not just a sport but in many ways a lifestyle with its own dress code, language and culture. The Surfing culture is vibrant in such diverse parts of the world as Scotland, Indonesia, France, South America and South Africa as well as the well-known waters off-shore islands of the Pacific Ocean, the USA and Australia. Almost anywhere there are waves there are Surfers and their accompanying lifestyle. Surfing is also a sport that attracts participants with various physical challenges and a number of programs are in force to assist those with disabilities to learn to surf. Your dream to Learn to Surf may be fulfilled by pursuing lessons at a nearby beach or by participating in an intense program at a resort location you have longed to visit. Once you master the basics you will have a sport that can virtually take you around the world in search of the perfect wave.

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