Learning to Surf
A beginner's guide to learning to surf
The usual order for learning to surf, from a first lesson and whitewater practice to paddling, standing up and reading the water, with safety habits from the first session.
The collection
Learning to Surf
The first steps in surfing: what to expect from a first lesson, how to paddle and stand up, and the common mistakes beginners make in their early sessions.
Learning to Surf
Common mistakes new surfers make in their first sessions
The most common errors in a beginner's first surf sessions, including poor positioning, late pop-ups, fighting the board and staying out too long, with a fix for each.
Learning to Surf
How surfing skills usually develop for beginners
The usual order of surfing skills for beginners, from whitewater and the pop-up to unbroken waves, trimming and turns, with a readiness check for each stage.
Learning to Surf
How to paddle past breaking waves
How to get past breaking waves without being pushed back, using paddling posture, timing between sets, and the duck dive and turtle roll to take the board under the wave.
Learning to Surf
How to stand up on a surfboard
A step-by-step guide to the surfboard pop-up, covering hand placement, foot placement and the body position that keeps you balanced once you are standing.
Learning to Surf
Teacher or self-taught: comparing ways to learn to surf
A comparison of lessons, guided sessions and teaching yourself, looking at safety oversight, feedback, pace and cost, to help beginners choose a sensible starting route.
Learning to Surf
What to know before your first surf lesson
What to plan before a first surf lesson, covering timing, what to wear and bring, the equipment usually provided, and how to speak up if you feel unsure in the water.