How to Use Shortboards to Surf the Ocean Waves

Shortboards are the choice of surfing pros because they are high performance and have a tighter turning radius. You are able to do more tricks and add creativity to your surfing when you advance to a shortboard. Shortboards are fun to ride but require greater strength and speed to get them moving through the water.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Learn to surf on a longboard first. If you are still a new surfer, it will be easier to catch waves and learn to pop up on a longer board.

2. Choose the right board. Make sure that the length and width of the board is correct for your body size, about 19- to 21-inch wide is a good width for your first shortboard.

3. Take advanced surfing lessons. If you are ready to advance to a shortboard, it is helpful to take lessons so you have someone to give feedback and help you get started faster.

4. Practice frequently. It may be difficult to transition from a longboard to a shortboard, but the more experience you have with a longboard the easier it will be to learn to surf with a shortboard.

5. Ensure that you have the strength it takes be able to maneuver a shortboard before you attempt to take on big waves. If the need arises to get out of the way of other surfers riding the wave, you will be in trouble if you can't paddle out of the way fast enough.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't attempt to learn to surf using a shortboard. It may look cooler but it will take you more time to learn to surf with a shortboard and it will just lead to frustration.

Who Can Help:

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!