How to Surf in Small Waves

Surfing is an amazing activity for fitness, fun and appreciating nature. But learning to surf can be difficult. For this reason, starting on smaller waves allows you to build the skills and confidence needed to move on to bigger and more powerful waves. With a little time, persistence and patience, you can become comfortable with the techniques required to be an effective surfer. All you need is a surfboard and some appropriate waves.

Things You'll Need

  • Surfboard
  • Rash vest (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Paddle out on the surfboard, with your chest on the board, use your arms to paddle, and your feet to kick to propel yourself. Head out about 50 to 100 yards from shore, or until you reach the point where the waves just begin to break.

    • 2

      Turn yourself around so that the tip of the board is facing the shore.

    • 3

      Look behind you, when you see a wave coming, about 15 to 20 feet behind you, start paddling and kicking quickly to try and match the speed of the wave.

    • 4

      Push your body up with your arms when the wave reaches you and jump up on your feet, one ahead of the other along the center line of the board. This will take a lot of practice and balance. The idea is to match the speed of the wave. Then, just as it reaches the back of the board, you jump up on the board and let the moving wave push you and the board forward with it.

    • 5

      Pump the board up and down using your legs in order to gain a little more momentum on smaller waves. Keep your feet firmly planted on the board but using your leg muscles, push down repeatedly if you find that the wave just rolls under you.