How to Get Waves
It's a perfect summer day. The sun's beating down on you, and you're dying to get out there in the surf to try out your new board. But before you head to the beach, learn some steps to help you get the waves!
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Instructions
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Find an quiet part of the beach where you won't have to compete for space in the water with the other surfers.
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Once you get past the shallow water, lay on your board, positioned so that only a few inches of the tip of the board are out of the water.
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Paddle out to where the waves are beginning to break, called the surf line or line-up. You may have to do a duck dive or a turtle roll to get through the oncoming waves. Try not to lose your board!
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Turn your back to the oncoming wave while glancing over your shoulder. Continue to paddle on your board, but get ready.
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Paddle hard and lean forward as the wave reaches you.
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Pop up to your feet, and stand when you feel the board catching the wave. You should be standing sideways on your board, feet perpendicular to the board and shoulder-width apart.
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Lean into the wave's shoulder, and you will begin to turn. Lean on your back foot and turn the board towards the breaking wave to sustain the ride.
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Tips & Warnings
Learn more about the properties of waves at the Surfline website. You'll be a better surfer when you understand the nature of the ocean.
Develop a healthy fear of and respect for the ocean!
Never surf alone. It can get hairy out there! Make sure a buddy comes along for the ride.
Don't try for the Big Kahuna waves until you've had a lot of experience on the little ones!
