How to Surf on a Longboard
Lauren Collison September 12th, 2018 Posted In: How-To Tags: Surfing
How to Surf on a Longboard
Longboard surfing can be a fun experience, but it can also be a dangerous one if you’re unsure of proper surfing procedure. It’s important to understand how to surf on a longboard before making the attempt to try it. Longboards are more stable and have an easier time catching smaller waves than shortboards, but they still require a lot of practice.
Receive Proper Instruction
It’s best if you receive a surfing lesson from an instructor rather than attempt to learn yourself. Knowing how to surf a longboard involves much more than discovering how to get on and into the water. You must also wax the board to prevent it from being too slippery.
Keep your knees slightly bent and have a relaxed posture like this surfer chick.
Waist-high water is required to start paddling out, and you’ll need to lay lengthwise in the center of the board to keep yourself steady as you paddle. With elbows bent, you’ll grip the rails of your board and push it down slightly so the nose isn’t sticking out of the water. You’ll want to get on one knee first before standing up completely and catching the wave. Keep the knees bent slightly and relax your body rather than standing straight and stiff. The instructor will have you practice on land before heading into the water.
Learn to Catch the Right Waves
Not every wave can be surfed. You need to learn how to catch the right waves if you’re going to ride safely. If a wave is coming in too fast, it may be best to avoid it until a slower wave comes toward you that you feel you can catch. It’s also important to stay out of the way if there are already other surfers making their attempts at the wave.
Wear the Right Gear
No one should head out in a basic bathing suit when attempting to surf. The right gear is necessary for a safe and effective ride. A wetsuit should be worn because it offers warmth when you end up in the water. Or wear a rashguard which protects you from the sun’s rays when you’re out and riding. You’ll of course need your longboard as well, which entails a board that is at least eight feet in length.
Anyone hoping to go longboard surfing needs to how to ride a longboard first. With some helpful tips and tricks and the right gear, anyone wanting to try will be ready to take on the task. Longboarding is fun when you know what you’re doing!
