Contents
Are you interested in learning how to surf a long board? If so, check out this blog post which provides helpful tips and advice for beginners.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
In surfing, longboarding is characterized by stance, turning techniques, and dimensions of the surfboard itself. Many cultures have their own specific longboarding techniques that have been developed over the years. In general, though, longboarding is considered to be a more traditional form of surfing that involves riding a larger board and catching waves in a more upright stance.
What You’ll Need
In order to surf a longboard, you’ll need a few things:
-A longboard (duh!). You can buy one or rent one from a surf shop.
-A wet suit or rash guard. This will protect you from the sun and from getting cut by the board.
-A leash. This will attach your board to your ankle so you don’t lose it in the waves.
-A Surf wax. This will make it easier to stand on your board.
Now that you have all of your gear, let’s get started!
Step One: Picking the Right Board
The first step to learning how to surf is to find the right board. Unlike shortboards, which are designed for quick, sharp turns, longboards are made for speed and stability. They’re also great for beginners because they’re easier to paddle and catch waves on. When you’re just starting out, it’s important to find a board that’s the right size and weight for you. If you’re on a budget, look for a used board or a foam board, which is cheaper than a traditional fiberglass longboard.
Once you have your board, it’s time to hit the water!
Step Two: Picking the Right Waves
The best waves for long boarders are those that are gentle and evenly curling. Look for waves that have a long, gentle curve from the time they first start to break until the time they hit the shore. These types of waves are called peelers, because they seem to peel off from the shoreline in a long, smooth curve. To find these waves, look for spots where the shoreline is fairly straight, with no islands or other landforms to disrupt the flow of water.
Step Three: Paddling Out
After you’ve waxed your board and put on your sunscreen, it’s time to paddle out! Paddling is probably the most tiring part of surfing, but don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it with a little practice. Here are a few tips:
– Get on your board in the shallows. Put your hands on the rails (sides) of the board and push yourself up. It’s easiest to do this on your knees at first.
– Once you’re on your feet, start paddling with long, smooth strokes. Dig deep into the water with each stroke and keep your arms straight. You can also try a ‘frog kick’ to help move yourself forward – just tuck your knees up close to your chest and kick like a frog!
– If you feel yourself getting tired, take a rest by lying on your stomach on the board. You can also try paddling on your knees if standing is too tiring.
– When you’re ready to catch a wave, start paddling towards the shore. Position yourself so that you’re perpendicular to the wave (parallel to the shore). As the wave starts to pick you up, put your hand down on the deck of the board and start paddling hard!
Step Four: Catching a Wave
Catching a wave is the most difficult and exhilarating part of surfing. When you see a potential wave, paddle quickly and with purpose toward the wave, using strong and even strokes. You should be aiming for a point beyond where the back of the wave is breaking. As you catch up to the wave, begin to rise to your feet. Place your front foot first, near the center of the board, and then place your back foot. For beginners, it may help to place your back foot all the way at the end of the board, near the tail. As you stand up, keep your knees bent and your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
Step Five: Standing Up
Finally, it’s time to stand up! Paddle hard with your arms to catch some speed and then place your feet on the deck of the board. You can place them wherever you feel comfortable, but most beginners prefer to put their front foot just behind the center of the board and their back foot about a foot from the tail. Once you’re in position, dig your back foot into the water to help propel yourself up. As you’re standing, keep your knees bent and your weight evenly distributed on the board. And that’s it — you’re surfing!
Step Six: Riding the Wave
After you have paddled hard enough and positioned yourself in the right spot, it is time to pop up on your board and start surfing! As the wave starts to catch your board, use your front foot to push up while simultaneously bringing your back foot up behind you and placing it on the board. One common mistakes beginners make is putting their back foot on the board before their front foot, which will result in them falling backwards off the board. Remember to keep your body as close to the center of the board as possible as you are pop up.
Conclusion
Now that you know the basics of how to surf a longboard, get out there and practice! Start in small, waist-high waves and work your way up. Don’t be discouraged if you wipe out – everyone does at first. With a little practice, you’ll be riding the waves like a pro in no time.
