Surfing is starting to become a a popular sportAnd we have a feeling that it's not going to stop any time soon. A lot of newcomers are getting into the sport. But some are missing a few steps and that can quickly cause problems. Let's take a look at the mistakes to avoid when you're a beginner.
When you discover a sport, you start at the very bottom. There are steps to follow in learning to practice. Some go faster than others depending on their location or performance, but that's not the point. As long as you love this sport and that you keep a good mentalityThat's the main thing.
However, we are going to give you a few tips to avoid when you're just starting out:
-
NOT KNOWING THE PRIORITY RULES
This is the real thing cause of accident and on the waves. When surfing, it is essential to respect these rules. They are there to establish security and above all to ensure that we can all get on well together, otherwise there will be total anarchy.
More concretely, a wave = a surfer. Quite simply.
A surfer setting off on the wave closest to the peak must never have his trajectory cut off. Otherwise it is a refusal of priority. It is also important not to remain in the surf zoneThat's where the wave crashes. It's a shame to get hit on the head by a board. To avoid this, don't hesitate to go around to get back to the peak. Even if it takes a bit longer, don't stress, there's something for everyone.
-
NOT HAVING A BOARD AT YOUR LEVEL
Surfing isn't really a 'style' sport, in the sense that you're not going to buy the latest Billabong wetsuit or the latest fashionable board. If you do, it's likely to cost you a lot of money and you're likely to have equipment you don't know how to handle. As a beginner, you have a duty to go through a foam board for the start. Admittedly, it's not the most beautiful board and it's not the one you see in the films, but you have to go through it. to learn.
Having a foam board of a certain size will enable you to catching waves The foam will absorb the shock and, thanks to its volume and length, you'll be able to catch more waves and exercise on them. The foam will absorb shocks and, thanks to its volume and length, you'll be able to catch more waves and practice on them. It will also prevent you from breaking. an epoxy or polyester board right from the start. Choosing the right board is vital, as it's one of the main tools you'll need to glide across the water. We tell you more in this article to help you choose your surfboard.
-
NOT KNOWING THE SURF SPOT
When you're a beginner, you don't really know where you can surf. It's really important to start in a place where the waves are smaller and at best where there are fewer people. This will allow you to develop your marine sense and understand how it works. Because surfing isn't just an activity where your body works. The brain does, analyses the waves to be picked up, the swell, the direction... All these parameters are important if we are to stay one step ahead and anticipate.
You must not underestimate the spot. Ask yourself a few questions before getting in the water: are there beginners? How big is the swell? Are the waves big? Powerful? In short, assess the conditions. It can be very dangerous if you go to a spot not surfable at your level. Dangerous for you and for others.
-
SURFING ALONE
Surfing alone is one of the most dangerous things, especially in the ocean. If, during your session, you're really alone and there's no one in the water, there may be a reason (I paid the price with Matthieu in Guadeloupe...).
Let's assume it's a fluke, but try to have at least one person on the beach just in case. Things can go very fast in the water, current too strong, bay (ocean), waves too big and so on. A lot can happen in a very short space of time. As a beginner, you to take care of yourself and not overestimate yourself. An expert doesn't go into the water alone, and not for nothing.
Golden rule : avoid putting yourself in danger and that will avoid putting others in danger.
- NOT TO COMMUNICATE
This sport is unique in that it is a collective and individual sport. Individual in the sense that it's you, your board and the wave. You deliver a personal performance. But there's also the collective side, where you surf spots with other riders. The waves are for everyone. But unfortunately there aren't waves for everyone, all the time. So it's great important to communicate with others. Being polite is important. If you make a good impression, you can go and see the locals and ask them questions if you need to.
We encourage you to point out where you're going, or to congratulate a surfer on their wave. Communicating will help you to creating links with others, and it's above all a mark of respect.
It's not easy when you're just starting out. It takes time to understand the conditions, to have the right reflexes. With desire and determination, you'll manage to evolve little by little. For advice, don't hesitate to get in touch with your surf shop localjoin the Facebook surfing groups and ask questions. We'd love to hear from you too! Finally, whether it's the Sea or the OceanDon't think you're above it. These waters are unpredictableDon't go into the water alone and work on your seamanship to make yourself more comfortable.