Dan Harmon, Author at Surf Hungry

Surfing In Australia: The Ultimate Guide

May 28, 2023by Dan Harmon

Home to gigantic swells and gentle tides, Australia is a surfing mecca for thrill-seeking pro-surfers and beginners alike with legendary beaches ranging from the iconic Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach with its 16 feet swells to sun-kissed Bondi Beach, with its laidback surfing lifestyle.

Australia is a prime surfing destination due to the island’s massive swells that travel from Antarctica and all-year-round surf-friendly weather. It features world-class beaches like Noosa Heads, Bells Beach, Treachery Beach, Crescent Head, The Pass, Duranbah, and Superbank on the Gold Coast.

This article covers everything you need about Australia’s surfing history, lifestyle, tournaments, and championships, including excellent surfing spots and surprising hidden gems. So, if you are rearing to go – read on!

Surfing In Australia: Facts You Need To Know

With roughly 2.5 to 3.5 million active surfers in Australia, and a wide range of excellent surf breaks spanning from Sydney to Torquay, surfing is a popular sport with an intriguing past.

Australia’s Colorful Surfing Past

There is much debate about the true origins of surfing in Australia. Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku is credited for introducing Aussies to surfing Down Under back in 1914 and demonstrated an impressive tandem surf with 15-year-old girl Isabel Letham in 1915.

Thanks to US lifeguards, Malibu boards became trendy in 1956. Australian Bob McTavish designed the first V-bottom surfboard in the 1960s, a game changer in the surfing scene.

The first Quicksilver board shorts were created in 1969 by two Torquay surfers who started making these boards in their garage, and the iconic Gold Coast Billabong brand was launched in 1973.

Australia has produced many ASP world champions like Tom Carroll, Chelsea Georgeson, Wayne Bartholomew, Wendy Botha, and Sally Fitzgibbons. And the likes of Mick Fanning, who won an impressive four Rip Curl Pro surfing titles, to name but a few.

Why Australia Is A Premier Surfing Destination

As the birthplace of iconic brands like Billabong, Quicksilver, and Rip Curl, surfing is an integral aspect of the Australian coastal lifestyle and culture. So, it is a prime surfing destination.

This premier surfing status is underscored by the fact that three World Surf League Championship titles are based in Australia, namely the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, the Drug Aware Margaret River Pro, and the Quicksilver Pro Gold Coast events.

Other major surfing tournaments include the Men’s Samsung Galaxy Championship Tour, Breaka Burleigh Pro, Australian Open of Surfing, Australian Boardriders Battle, the Noosa Festival of Surfing, and the Beachley Classic.

Where To Find The Best Surf In Australia

If you are looking for the best surf spots, including some hidden gems – look no further! Here is a run-down on Australia’s best-kept secrets.

Crescent Head, New South Wales

Situated north of Port Macquarie on this 15.5-mile-long coastline, dotted with four excellent right-hand point breaks, and breathtaking rides up to 650ft, Crescent Head is hands down one of the best places to surf Down Under, so expect to jostle for space at this popular surfing spot.

The Gold Coast, Queensland

Even though surfers are spoilt for choice in Queensland, the Gold Coast, home to some of the best suffers in the world, is considered a surfing paradise with its sandy beaches and excellent waves at the likes of Snapper Rocks, Surfers Paradise, Narrow Neck, and Rainbow Bay.

Bells Beach, Victoria

The iconic Bells Beach, with powerful, gigantic swells reaching over 16 feet, is located near Torquay.

Bells Beach is also home to Australia’s oldest and most renowned surfing event, the Rip Curl Pro, which dates to 1962, so it’s clear why it is considered one of the best surfing spots in the world.

Sydney’s Northern Beaches

With a stunning 7.5-mile-long coastline that stretches from Manly to Palm Beach, the Northern Beaches are some of Sydney’s popular surfing spots.

Although the iconic North Narrabeen beach is the busiest, the coastline extends over 1.9 miles, and you can ride some massive waves at the legendary Long Beef Bommie.

Treachery Beach, New South Wales

Located at Seal Rocks, Treachery Beach, which is tucked away from all the crowds, is a hidden gem. And it’s hard to believe that this prime surfing destination with its powerful southerly swells is not well known. So, best keep it that way!

The Pass, Byron Bay

This list of the best Australian surfing spots would be incomplete without mentioning Byron Bay, with an abundance of excellent beaches like The Pass, situated near Clarkes Beach, with some of the best waves in Australia.

Noosa Heads, Queensland

With some of the best longboard breaks in the world for pro-surfers and tranquil spots in between for those new to surfing, Noosa Heads cater to all abilities.

Exploring Australian Surf Culture

Australia’s iconic surf culture started in the ’60s when bohemian surfers like Rip Curl founders; Brian “Sing Ding” Singer and Doug “Claw” Warbrick formed tight-knit surfing communities in Victoria, Torquay, and other coastal towns.

The 60s is considered surfing’s golden age for those who wanted to escape city life and enjoy a laidback lifestyle with cheap communal house rents ($20 per week) and shared vegetarian meals.

Thus, it is no surprise that this entrenched Australian surfing culture reverberates today, with avid surfers prioritizing surfing above all else by moving to coastal areas or traveling up and down the coast looking for the best point breaks.

To illustrate how sought after the surfing lifestyle is in Australia, areas like the Gold Coast in Queensland have more active surfers per capita than any place in the world.

For instance, Coolangatta is home to legendary world-class surfers like Mick Fanning, Joel Parkinson, and Stephanie Gilmore, and the annual Quicksilver Pro Gold Coast surfing competition has been held there since 2002.

However, the Gold Coast also features the renowned Superbank, a partially artificial beach formed in 2007 with a 1.2-mile-long coast and the fastest and longest hollow surfing waves on earth.

The Gold Coast also offers a stellar lineup of competitive events in Duranbah, Superbank, and Burleigh Heads. It’s clearly a surfer’s paradise!

Best Time To Surf In Australia: A Seasonal Guide

Even though Australia’s climate varies dramatically, depending on where you are, the weather is sunny or humid during the summer and mostly dry in the winter.

So, if you are planning a trip to Oz, you will be happy to know that there’s no official surfing season, and it’s an all-year-round surfing destination for stellar waves.

Albeit, we all know that weather conditions can be inconsistent, and this is true for the hot Australian summer season, with average water temperatures reaching 79-82°F from December to February when the cyclone season kicks in with epic waves for at least a week.

However, if you plan on going Down Under during the summer, be prepared for crowded waves and steep tourist prices as it is the peak travel season.

Pro-tip: If you want to enjoy pumping swells, offshore winds, warm water with far fewer crowds, and better prices, book your trip in Autumn between March and May.

Alternatively, consider visiting Australia during the winter months from June to August. Even though the average water temperature is 66-72°F, it’s still a great time to surf. While spring is less consistent weatherwise, it’s still worth a visit.

The Australian east coast water is also far warmer than the south coast, so you can surf there without a wetsuit in the afternoons, even during mid-winter if it’s not a windy day or early on a winter’s morning (when you will need a long sleeve wetsuit).

Top Surf Spots In Australia: Map And Details

While there are so many excellent surf spots Down Under, the following world-class beaches stand out. Here are some of the top surf spots in Oz, including maps to get there.

The Gold Cost

The Gold Coast is a surfer’s paradise, commonly known as Australia’s land of milk in honey, with iconic swell slams on beaches ranging from the legendary Coolangatta and Snapper Rocks to Kirra.

Click here to find a map of the top surf spots on the Gold Coast.

Bells Beach

Home to the annual Rip Curl Pro, Bells Beach, located along the breathtaking Great Ocean Road, and a minute’s drive from Melbourne, thoroughly deserves to be included on this list of the top surf spots in Oz.

Click here to find the legendary Bells Beach.

Byron Bay

This laidback coastal town is a trendy hangout spot for surfers, hippies, and hipsters, with a wide array of beginner-friendly beaches with private and group surfing lessons on the main beach, including Wategos Beach and Tallow Beach.

Click here to explore the top Byron Bay beaches.

Bondi Beach

Sydney’s Bondi Beach and its postcard-perfect beaches and relaxed lifestyle need no introduction. It caters to surfers of all ability levels with beginner-friendly swells and excellent right-handers in areas like South Bondi.

Click here to find the top surf spots in Bondi Beach.

Beginner-Friendly Surfing Destinations In Australia

Australia is ideal if you are looking for beginner-friendly surfing spots with excellent surf- schools, as there are so many to choose from.

If you are first time surfer, avoid beaches with massive swells or vortex barrels, and opt for beaches with lifeguards, white-water waves, and gentle tides like the following beginner-friendly beaches:

Anglesea in Victoria
West Beach in Western Australia
Tathra Beach in New South Wales
Middleton Beach in South Australia
Clarkes Beach in Byron Bay, New South Wales
Dicky Beach on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland
Crescent Head in New South Wales (with Kempsey-Crescent Head Surf Club flags)

Australia Surf Camps: What To Expect

Booking a surf camp is the most convenient way to travel to Australia, as the organizers take care of all your basic needs. You don’t have to worry about booking accommodation, transfers, lessons, or hiring surfing gear, or in some instances, airport transfers and meals.

With so many excellent Aussie surf camps, it’s often difficult to choose, so check out their latest reviews to find the right one.

The Best Surf Towns In Australia

Considering that 90% of Australia’s population lives close to the coast, the best surf towns are, depending on your location, a fun road trip away.

If you are planning your trip Down Under, here’s a brief overview of accommodation, dining, getting around, and other vacation activities.

Accommodation

Like most parts of the world, popular Aussie coastal cities are more expensive than small towns, so bear that in mind when shopping for accommodation.

Australia is a prime backpacking destination, so if you are traveling on a tight budget and prepared to “rough” it a little, you can expect to pay roughly 15 USD per night for a dorm room.

You can also stay at a budget-friendly campsite which typically costs 10-20 USD per night.

There are also lots of surfer-friendly hotels, particularly on the Gold Coast, with budget-friendly double room rates.

Food And Dining Out

Food is expensive in Australia, so you can expect to pay roughly 12 USD for fast food and 6-9 USD for a basic sandwich. If you are prepared to cook your own meals, it should cost you roughly 80 USD per week.

Australia also offers world-class restaurants and some of the best fresh seafood on the planet!

Getting Around

Even though taxis and trains are relatively expensive, Australia’s public bus system is affordable. Thus, getting around is easy, particularly on the east coast, where buses run between the major cities.

Another budget-friendly way to get around is by sharing rides with fellow travelers. So, if you plan on staying at a hostel, check the bulletin boards for rideshare posts.

Activities And Upcoming Events

Australia is a massive country that offers many fun activities that cater to adrenaline seekers, with abseiling, shark-cage diving, and river rafting, including wildlife enthusiasts with excursions to koala wildlife sanctuaries.

If you want to make the most of traveling all the way to Australia, check out the following, not to be missed upcoming events.

Conclusion

This ultimate guide to surfing proves that Australia is a dream come true with world-class beaches ranging from the legendary Gold Coast and the iconic Bells Beach to hidden gems like Treachery Beach that cater to beginners and pro-surfers alike with gentle tides and thrilling rides.

Dan Harmon

Body Surfing: How to Ride the Waves with Your Own Body

May 28, 2023by Dan Harmon

While surfing is commonly accepted as among the world’s most exhilarating and enjoyable extreme water sports, many argue it cannot compete with body surfing. The thrill of catching a wave without using buoyant devices such as bodyboards or surfboards remains unmatched. After some practice, body surfing is relatively easy for anyone to master, as this article will demonstrate.

To bodysurf, find an optimal wave, usually breaking near the shore. Once you have identified an appropriate wave, wait for it to approach before swimming toward it. Allow the wave to lift your body slightly while kicking your legs to maintain balance and extending your arms to direct yourself.

Over the previous few decades, body surfing has continued to distinguish itself from traditional surfing, developing into a highly competitive global sport. To the inexperienced individual, body surfing can seem intimidating; however, rapidly progressing is not uncommon with the correct understanding, timing, technique, and confidence. However, a few vital factors all beginners must keep in mind.

Body Surfing For Beginners

Body surfing is the same as traditional surfing, except for a surfboard. If you have ever caught and ridden a wave without using a surfboard, you have unknowingly body-surfed.

Despite body surfing being easier to learn than traditional surfing, obtaining the optimal technique, timing, and skills requires several hours of practice. The best waves for bodysurfing are usually between one and three feet high, allowing surfers to ride the wave directly toward the beach.

It is worthwhile noting that most experienced surfers agree that body surfing is easier to learn, advance, and master as it requires no equipment or powerful waves. Instead, body surfing will require you to position your body in front of the wave before it breaks.

Your body position and momentum before the wave reaches you are vital. An incorrect body position will likely result in you missing the wave or being harshly dumped by it. The best way to body surf is to align yourself with an appropriate oncoming wave before gently swimming toward it.

Once your chosen wave gains momentum, you can catch it by pushing off the seabed’s surface and lurching your body in the same direction the wave travels. For inexperienced body surfers, it is recommended to hone the correct technique in shallower waters where you comfortably stand before progressing to deeper waters with significantly more powerful waves.

How Difficult Is Body Surfing?

Body surfing is considered by many to be easier to learn than traditional surfing, longboarding, or kayaking, as it does not necessitate any equipment.

However, body surfing can be incredibly challenging and frustrating for people without sufficient swimming skills or the ability to accurately read oncoming waves. Yet, with several hours of dedicated practice, body surfing can be easy, enjoyable, and satisfying.

An often-overlooked benefit of learning how to body surf is how it permanently enhances surfing and swimming skills while simultaneously allowing you to thoroughly understand how waves function, build up, and break.

Anyone can learn how to body surf within an hour or two. Once you have mastered catching a wave without using a surfboard or accompanying flotation device, you will rapidly progress due to improved confidence, enhanced ability to read waves accurately, and overall swimming skills.

Health Benefits Associated With Body Surfing

Body surfing is closely associated with numerous health benefits as the water sport is among the best workouts imaginable.

While you may not notice how hard your body is working during your body surfing sessions, the extreme water sport is known to significantly benefit muscular endurance, strength, and cardiovascular fitness.

Furthermore, how the body moves while body surfing will indirectly benefit your overall balance and flexibility, balance and flexibility are crucial to body surfing as the extreme water sports necessitate a specific body position to successfully catch smaller, less powerful waves.

At the same time, if you do not have any of the required physical characteristics associated with body surfing, you will obtain them within the first few hours of practice. Once you can repeatedly catch waves without a flotation device, you will inadvertently and permanently enhance physical and cardiovascular fitness while benefitting your general balance and flexibility.

Body Surfing Vs. Surfing: Similarities And Differences

While there are many similarities between body surfing and traditional surfing, they are considered two separate extreme water sports.

The main and obvious difference between body surfing and traditional surfing is the requirement of a flotation device. Purchasing, maintaining, and utilizing a modern surfboard can be expensive; however, you can body surf without any accompanying equipment, making it appealing to millions of people globally.

Moreover, body surfing usually occurs in shallower waters closer to the shore. This allows extreme water sports to be additionally accessible for anyone, as various forms of surfing equipment are not readily accessible to most beachgoers.

In addition to a pricy surfboard, surfers must buy other equipment such as wax, a wetsuit, and a vehicle big enough to comfortably carry the costly extreme water sports gear. Body surfing can offer a similar experience and thrill to traditional surfing, yet it is usually significantly cheaper for most beginners.

Body Surfing Tips And Tricks: How To Advance Your Skills

Despite many inexperienced body surfers experiencing some form of frustration during the learning phase, most will rapidly progress once they have the hang of it.

If you are comfortable regularly catching waves without using a flotation device, there are numerous tricks to learn, which will unquestionably make the entire experience more enjoyable. After learning the basics, the best skills to master are known as the dolphin dive, the turtle roll, and the spin.

The best and most advanced body surfing tips and skills to try are:

Learn how to bodysurf and navigate bigger beach breaks.
Attempt to navigate powerful shore and reef break waves.
Learn to let powerful waves dump you while holding your breath and submitting to the water’s movements.
Utilize forceful rip currents.
Master the duck dive timing technique.
Identify, catch, and ride massive beach breakers.
For the best and most confident body surfers globally, master the art of riding under the barrel of an enormous wave.

While the mentioned advanced body surfing moves may seem daunting to inexperienced individuals, they are straightforward to master if you put in the required effort. At the same time, body surfing is an incredibly enjoyable water sport, making the learning phase enjoyable.

While you enjoy your time in the water, you will indirectly advance your skills to the point where you can comfortably catch bigger, steeper, and more powerful waves. The bigger, more powerful waves will dramatically enhance your body’s surfing experience, making the process incredibly enjoyable, thrilling, and exhilarating for millions globally.

There is always more to learn regarding body surfing, as those people with creative and adventurous minds will find countless ways to advance their skills, cultivate new tricks, and continuously improve their enjoyment levels while in the water.

Conclusion

Body surfing is among the world’s most popular extreme water sports due to the undoubted thrill, enjoyment, and exhilaration it has always been associated with. Learning how to body surf can be challenging, although it is straightforward to master after practicing for a few hours. If you have never body surfed, take this as a sign to get into the water and experience one of life’s greatest experiences.

Dan Harmon

Surfing In Costa Rica: A Complete Guide

May 28, 2023by Dan Harmon

Surfing in Costa Rica is like riding an exhilarating wave of adventure surrounded by natural bliss! It’s where the majestic Pacific meets tropical shores, creating a paradise for wave riders worldwide. Breathtaking surf spots, and year-round swells, beckons both beginners and seasoned to take the boards and get gnarly. So, what’s there to know about surfing the waves in Costa Rica? Among the most popular spots to surf in Costa Rica include Tamarindo, Witches Rock, and Pavones. Sharing the coasts with the lively surfing culture, you will find that the Pacific Coast offers ideal waves from May to October, while the Caribbean Coast gets more action from November to April. Surfers here know that each spot has its own personality and rhythm. And Costa Rica’s coasts boast an abundance of incredible surf spots waiting to be explored. The country is blessed with two coasts that offer tons of great surf spots to choose from, and this guide will provide you with insider tips to ride awesome waves and make your experience unforgettable. Where To Surf In Costa Rica Being a surfer’s dream, Costa Rica boasts over 800 miles of coastline and countless waves to choose from. So, if you’re looking for a mellow beach break, a hollow reef break, or a long point break, you’ll find it somewhere in this tropical paradise. Here are some awesome tips and recommendations to help you plan your epic surf trip. Costa Rica Surf Map: Top Surf Spots To get a bird’s eye view of the best spots to surf in Costa Rica, check out this handy surf map (Surfline) showing the location and data of the country’s most famous and popular waves. That aside, note that Costa Rica has two main coasts: the Pacific and the Caribbean. The Pacific coast has more surf spots and more consistent waves throughout the year, while the Caribbean coast has fewer spots and more seasonal waves that depend on storms and hurricanes. With the Pacific as the most popular, its coasts can be divided into four regions: North & South Guanacaste, Central Pacific, and South Pacific. Each section has its own vibe, climate, and surf conditions. Here are some of the need-to-know highlights of each area: North Guanacaste: This is where you’ll find some of the most iconic surf sites in Costa Rica, such as Witches Rock, Ollie’s Point, Playa Grande, and Tamarindo. This region is known for its offshore winds, dry weather, and world-class waves ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-only. It’s also a popular tourist destination with many amenities, nightlife, and activities. South Guanacaste: The south is where you’ll find some of the most attractive and secluded beaches, such as Avellanas, Playa Negra, Marbella, and Mal Pais. This region is known for its laid-back atmosphere, lush vegetation, and uncrowded waves that can be fun for all levels, with a consistent spread that could accommodate a whole army of wave riders. Central Pacific: This is where you’ll find some of the most accessible and diverse surf spots, such as Playa Jaco, Hermosa (north), Esterillos, and Manuel Antonio. This region is known for its warm water, rainy weather, and consistent waves ranging from small and playful to big and powerful. It’s also a convenient place to stay, with plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, shops, and attractions. South Pacific: Just south is where you’ll find some of the most remote and adventurous surf spots in Costa Rica, such as Dominical, Uvita, Matapalo, and Pavones. This region is known for its tropical rainforest, abundant wildlife, and epic waves that can be long and perfect. It’s also a challenging place to travel to, with limited infrastructure, services, and crowds. Best Surfing Spots For Beginners In Costa Rica For those eager to hang ten and ride the waves in a safe and stoked atmosphere, Costa Rica’s got your back with a rad lineup of beginner-friendly spots. You’ll be looking for gentle, playful waves that break over a sandy bottom, making them easy to catch and ride. Moreover, you would also find nearby surf schools, camps, shops, and instructors around the area to help you learn the basics or up your surfing game. Check out these epic waves where beginner surfers can paddle out and catch their first epic vibe in Costa Rica: Tamarindo: Known to be among the most popular surf towns in Costa Rica and a great place to learn how to surf, the main beach has several peaks that offer small and friendly waves for beginners. Also, take a boat trip to nearby spots like Witches Rock or Ollie’s Point if you want to challenge yourself with bigger waves. Playa Cocles: This is one of the best surf spots on the Caribbean coast and an excellent place to learn how to surf when the swell is small. The beach has a wide sandbar that creates soft waves perfect for beginners. You can also relish the laid-back vibe of the town and the area’s spicy beauty. Nosara: Among some of the most beautiful surf towns in Costa Rica, it’s a great place to learn how to surf. The main beach, Guiones, has a long stretch of sand that offers multiple peaks that suit different levels of surfers. The waves here are usually smooth and well-formed, thanks to the offshore winds. Manuel Antonio: This place is stunning and a total hotspot in Costa Rica, making it a terrific choice to kickstart your surfing journey and catch some epic waves surrounded by jaw-dropping beauty. The main beach has a wide and flat sandbar that creates gentle waves ideal for beginners. Little Hawaii: Costa Rica’s World-Class Surfing Destination Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping challenge at Little Hawaii, a world-class reef break in Playa Avellanas. This secluded gem in South Guanacaste demands skill and courage, with long paddles, strong currents, and waves reaching up to 18 feet. But the reward? Unforgettable rides on powerful right-handers. Surrounded by sm epic scenery—think green hills, palm trees, and crystal-clear water—you can … Read more

Traveling With Wakeboard Gear | Pro Tips

May 28, 2023by Dan Harmon

Wakeboarding can be a lot of fun, and part of that fun is taking it with you when you travel. There are so many great wakeboarding spots around the world that it wouldn’t be right not to take it with you. But there are many risks involved, like the possibility that it could get stolen or damaged in transit. So, how can you travel and keep the wakeboard gear you store so beautifully at home, safe on the road? Airlines have different rules about transporting wakeboard gear, and it could incur additional costs in some cases. You should check the airline’s baggage policy before you travel and, if possible, take it as carry-on baggage to keep it safe. You can also put it in a regular bag to protect it. Navigating through airline policies and ensuring your gear arrives intact can improve your overall traveling experience. Let’s look at some tips and guidelines for traveling with wakeboard gear, specifically when taking your wakeboard on a plane. Can I Bring a Wakeboard on a Plane? Most airlines will permit you to take your wakeboard on a plane, but you shouldn’t just assume that would be the case. There are a few reasons why it could be risky: Some airlines charge an additional fee for sporting gear. There are a few that could charge $100 or even more as a special baggage fee, which could increase your travel costs significantly. It’s possible that your wakeboard could get damaged by the baggage handlers if you don’t pack it properly (and sometimes even if you do). Wakeboards are expensive pieces of sporting equipment, so theft isn’t out of the question either. So, how can you avoid these issues? Here are a few tips. Check The Airline’s Policies If you plan to travel with your wakeboard, check with the airline first. Before you pay for your ticket, go through the baggage policies or ask your travel agent about it. Some will charge an additional fee to transport your wakeboard or may have special packing requirements. Many wakeboarders get past the additional fee by declaring the wakeboard as a waterski since surfboards tend to cost more to take on board a plane than waterskis. There are even users in online forums who declared their wakeboards as golf clubs to save a few dollars. This is not recommended, though, as many airline officials can be pretty strict about their baggage rules. Use A Special Wakeboard Bag Transporting your wakeboard is much easier (and safer) with a proper wakeboard bag. There are various kinds, but when it’s for traveling, you should opt for a suitable bag with sturdy handles and plenty of padding. Whether you’re carrying it with you or checking it, the board can easily get damaged. A robust and padded bag will help avoid the scratches, dents, and dings that can occur on planes. Pack Your Wakeboard Strategically When packing your wakeboard gear, take care to place your wakeboard, bindings, and other accessories strategically. You can add padding by placing towels or clothing around your kit to create a cushioning layer, reducing the risk of damage caused by shifting during transport. Distribute the weight evenly to prevent unnecessary strain on any particular part of the wakeboard bag. You can also use this technique in another type of carry case. For example, if you have a suitcase that’s large enough, you can easily add padding with pillows, clothing, or towels to protect it. Just don’t try to hide the wakeboard this way since it will be clearly visible to security staff. Consider Carrying Your Wakeboard with You It’s an unfortunate fact that airlines don’t always take care of our luggage as we expect them to. We don’t see what happens after we check our bags, and mistakes can happen. Even though less than 1% of baggage gets lost or damaged by airlines, you don’t want your wakeboard to be part of that statistic. A simple mistake can cause someone to drop your wakeboard or place another heavy item next to it in just the wrong position, causing damage. Even worse, prying eyes could notice your wakeboard and decide that it could fetch them a few spare dollars at the local pawn shop. That’s why it’s a good idea to carry your wakeboard gear with you if it’s at all possible. Not all airlines allow this and require you to check any sporting goods, so look closely at the airline’s baggage policies. You can also ask the baggage clerk if it would be possible to carry it on the plane with you, and it’s surprising how many of them will allow it. The Alternative: Don’t Travel with Your Wakeboard Gear As we can see, there are ways to take your wakeboard and gear on a plane, but it can be quite a hassle. Yes, we tend to be attached to our sporting equipment, and a wakeboard is no exception. It just feels better to use your own board. But is carrying your wakeboard with you really worth the risk? The additional costs and possibility of damage or theft aren’t always justifiable. Most wakeboarding hotspots allow you to rent boards and gear, often at a fraction of the price of transporting the equipment on a plane and without the risks. It might be worth searching the web for wakeboard rental options at your destination and finding out if it would be viable. It’s also a good idea to read some reviews of the establishments to find out if they take proper care of their equipment before you make your final decision. You don’t want to leave your gear at home just to find that the rentals are low quality or damaged, which will tarnish your travel experience considerably. Conclusion It’s always risky to travel with your wakeboard gear, and it requires careful planning and strategic thinking. You should seriously consider simply renting equipment at your destination rather than traveling with it. Still, if … Read more

Surfing In Peru: Discovering The Best Waves

May 28, 2023by Dan Harmon

While most people are familiar with Hawaii, Bali, or even South Africa, most people don’t know about the surfing treasure that is Peru. So, when planning your next big surf expedition, if you’ve experienced the “usual” spots, why not consider surfing in Peru and discover the best waves in South America, Peru’s coastline stretches roughly 1500 miles along the Pacific Ocean, producing some of the longest waves in South America. While most of the coastline is great for surfing, the top surf spots in Peru are Mancora, Playa Chicama, Waikiki, and Punta Hermosa -provided you’re an advanced surfer. Peru is most famous for its incredible archeological treasures. However, Peru is a wondrous surfing destination thanks to the local currents and rugged coastlines. Below we’ll look at the best surfing spots, when the surfing season starts, surfing’s history in Peru, and how the surf culture looks. Peru Surfing Season: When To Catch The Biggest Waves Peru is good for surfing throughout the year. Providing visitors with a choice of summer or winter. Most visitors to the Peruvian shores prefer the summer months, December through February (remember, Peru is in the Southern Hemisphere), as these months guarantee warmer water and air temperatures. However, surf conditions are adequate from October to March (spring until early fall). Consequently, those interested in surfing the biggest of the big waves in Peru should head to southern Peru during the colder months (March to August), when Pico Alto rears its (up to) 35-foot face! These waves are only for experienced big-wave surfers, as many well-surfed individuals have broken bones here. Another perspective is that Peru experiences two surfing seasons. The south swell season is between March and November (winter), producing consistent, larger waves. The north swell season is from November to March (summer months). Although the waves are less consistent, the water is warmer. Surfing Events And Competitions In Peru Although Peru is not yet world number 1 for surfing, it has had some recognition from the global surfing community over the years. Peru has hosted several surfing competitions, including: Peru International Surfing Championships This annual surfing event ran in February or March between 1956 and 1974. The competition took place in Lima and was a tremendous success (with many international surfers) thanks to the likes of Carlos Dogny. The World Championships In 1965, Peru hosted this competition organized by the International Surfing Federation. Peru’s Felipe Pomar claimed gold in some tricky water. ISA World Longboard Surfing Championship Although the longboard surfing event is usually part of the ISA World Events, in 2013, it was a separate competition hosted in Peru. World Surfing League In 2017, Peru hosted two qualifying events: Rip Curl Pro San Bartolo Peru Men’s QS 1,000 Jeep Pro San Bartolo Peru Women’s QS 1,000 Where more than 100 athletes from different countries competed for a qualifying spot, Peru also hosted qualifiers in 2012. The Pan American Games in Lima Peru hosted these games in 2019, where surfing was one of many events. Peru took home (or kept) 7 medals. The Peru National Surf Circuit Peru’s surfing events are not only tied to international competitions. This national event is held annually and showcases the best surfers in Peru. There are various events, including longboarding, regular surfing, and stand-up paddle boarding across the most popular of Peru’s beaches. Peru Surfing History: From Ancient Origins To Modern-Day Destinations While many hold that the origins of surfing trace back to Polynesia (and eventually Hawaii), significant evidence points to ancient Peruvian surfing long before the Hawaiians and probably the Polynesians. Historians believe that the early peoples of the area (roughly 4000 years ago) rode on “caballitos de totora” (little reed horses), which predates the Incas in the area (part of the Mochica and Chimu cultures, or potentially the 1000 BC Viru culture). As their name suggests, these flotation devices are constructed from reeds tied together. There are two variations, a fishing boat (with a storage area) and a wave riding/surfing model. Riders of these “reed horses” stand up or kneel and use a cut bamboo pole to move around on the ocean (like stand-up paddleboarding) or catch the waves. Although less popular than a few millennia ago, some Peruvian anglers build and surf on their “caballitos.” Although related, these reed boats are considerably different from modern surfboards. The modern iteration of surfing arrived in Peru from Hawaii in 1942, when Carlos Dodgy established the Waikiki Club in Miraflores. A unique feature of Dodgy’s club was that it catered to the rich and opulent demographic. Butlers, attendants, board carriers, and luxurious accommodations were commonplace at the club. Since its re-introduction, surfing has become a popular pastime for many Peruvians, surfing alongside traditional reed horses (especially in Huanchaco). Peruvian Surfers’ Contribution To The Sport Although Peru’s coastline lends itself to fantastic surfing, the sport’s popularity and global interest in Peru relate to the impact Peruvian surfers have, showcasing to the world. 2004 Sofía Mulanovich put Peru back on the surfing map when she won the World Title (coming first in 3 out of 6 events). Although Sofia is one of the most famous Peruvian surfers, she’s not the only one contributing to the sport. Others include: Felipe Pomar – 1965 World Surfing Champion and surfing legend. Joaquin Mirá – Quesada, Francisco Aramburu, and Miguel Plaza – were the first to ride the Pico Alto (Tall Peak) in 1965. Cristobal de Col – in 2016 earned his Guinness Book of Records spot thanks to the 34 carved turns he made while riding the longest wave in Peru at Chicama. How Peru’s Coastline Affects Surf Conditions Peru’s surf conditions are created through the workings of the Humnbolt (or Peru) current, bringing cold water from the Antarctic. With the colder water come cold southwest winds, which whip up the waves. The roughly 1500-mile coastline experiences mostly tropical-dry and subtropical-desert climates. The coastline creates many point breaks, producing wonderful left-handed waves. Thanks to offshore reefs, Peru … Read more

Surfing: How To Pop Up: A Step-By-Step Guide

May 18, 2023by Dan Harmon

As a beginner surfer, there are many things to learn and master before you comfortably ride most waves. One of the essential skills you’ll need to learn is how to “pop up” because you’re only bodyboarding without it. Fortunately, this article provides a step-by-step guide on how to pop up for those embarking on a surfing adventure. The key to a successful pop-up on a surfboard is your position on the board, correct foot and hand placement, a balanced stance, and practicing the movements until they are natural. Core strength, balance, and coordination are essential for mastering the various pop-up techniques. Once you’ve learned how to paddle the board, the next important technique to learn is how to pop up. Although this beginner’s technique is fundamental to surfing (especially on a longboard or foam surfboard), it is tricky to master. This article focuses on the push-up and slide method for popping up. Start In The Right Position Fundamental to executing the pop-up technique is starting in the right position. Picture this. You’ve paddled out through the surf and joined the lineup. You’ve waited patiently (it’s a busy day), and it’s finally your turn. You paddle hard; the wave starts pushing you. In your excitement, you stand up, but alas! You’re too far back, and your board stalls. How could you avoid this? By being aware of your body’s position on the board before standing up. Where You Lie On The Surfboard Is Essential While paddling out to the waves requires certain body positioning (so you don’t fall off when going over/under waves and swells), once you’re in position, ready to catch a wave, you’ll need to lie on your stomach again in a way that maximizes your paddling capabilities. I.e., lie where you can paddle quickly with your arms so that the wave catches and drives you along. You want to lie far back enough that the surfboard’s nose is in line with, or just above, the water. Too low and you’ll nose dive; too high, the back of the board sits too low in the water, creating drag. Unfortunately, this drag results in the wave not pushing you along sufficiently. You’re too far back if your surfboard’s nose is 30° (or more) above the water. Lying in the correct spot takes practice. As a beginner, you won’t always get it right. If you surf with friends/a group, ask for pointers as you wait for waves (unless you plan on an out-of-body experience, seeing yourself from the side is challenging). Another great way to learn about the ideal position is to ride a few waves lying on a surfboard (like a bodyboarder). Although it may feel embarrassing, you’ll learn where to position yourself and what it feels like when a wave takes you. Preparing For Pushing Up On A Surfboard Once you’re correctly positioned and the right wave approaches, start paddling! You’ll paddle between four and eight strokes to move fast enough to catch a wave. Enough speed is essential for a pop-up, and part of the correct position is moving ahead of the wave. If uncertain, give an extra one or two paddles to ensure you travel with the wave. Once the wave takes over, put your hands (palms down) on the board with your fingers pointing to the surfboard’s nose. They should be next to your pectoral region. If you’re on a longboard, position your feet with the toes down on the surfboard’s tail (most beginners start on longboards, as they are easier to balance and the wave catches them quicker). Congratulations, you’re ready for a push-up! Push Up and Slide Your Feet Although there are four different pop-up methods, the push-up method is the easiest for beginners to master. This technique is ideally suited to longboards and large foam boards. Once you’re moving along with the wave and your hands are in position, push your body up and away from the board, pivoting on your toes on the surfboard’s tail. Slide your feet underneath yourself when your body is above the surfboard (your arms are stretched to their maximum, giving you as much space as possible). As strange as it sounds, the best method for this slide is to bring your back foot (if you stand regular, then your right foot, if you stand goofy, then your left foot) forward first. Your back foot should end roughly in line with your other leg’s knee. Once the back foot is in position, you’ll move the “soon-to-be” front foot forwards and place it between your hands with your knee bent under your chin (ideally, you want to land with your front foot roughly in the middle of the surfboard). Now you’re ready to stand up. Take your hands off and step up. Note: Although you can move your front foot into position first, you risk landing too far back on the board, which would cause you to stall and fall. Tips On Perfecting The Push Up And Feet Slide It’s important to push with the same force on both hands; otherwise, you might tip the board one way. Keeping your hands on the board while sliding your feet helps you maintain your balance and speed (by keeping the nose sufficiently down). Try not to grab onto the rails (side of the board). Your hands under the board create drag and could cause you to topple over. You’ll need to be able to push your body up and hold it on your hands and toes, so a degree of physical strength (arms, core, legs, etc.) is necessary. You’ll hold roughly 80% of your body weight on your arms, freeing up your legs to move forward. Look ahead of you when pushing up. If you look at your feet, you’re likely to fall. Don’t worry about trying to move both feet and land them on the surfboard simultaneously. Rather, focus on sliding the backfoot into position, followed by the front foot forward. When you’ve … Read more

Common Surfing Injuries: What You Need to Know

May 18, 2023by Dan Harmon

If you enjoy adrenaline, speed, water, and risk, surfing may be the sport for you. But before you get in the water, it is always good to know about the possible injuries you may sustain, and understanding how to avoid them is equally important. Though one of the biggest fears for anyone catching waves may be shark-related, some injuries are much more common. Below, we discuss them in detail. The most common surfing injuries include dislocations, concussions, and head injuries, but may also include more specific injuries such as “surfer’s ear.” Though you may be unable to avoid them all, using the right equipment and practicing body awareness may help reduce the risk of serious injury. Whether you’re newer to the sport or a veteran surfer, knowing the injuries you may sustain and how to avoid them is valuable information to keep yourself safe and prepared in any situation. Let’s look in more expansive detail at the most common surfing injuries. We’ll also give you more detail on how to avoid these injuries and ensure you stay safe the next time you go chasing waves. Common Surfing Injuries Though there are more injuries that you may sustain while surfing, the list below is some of the most common ones. Surfer’s Ear Surfer’s ear, though common under surfers, isn’t a surfing-only injury but gets caused by prolonged exposure to cold water. Due to repeated exposure to water under 66°F, the ear’s bone develops growths that, while not initially harming the person, may cause other problems such as hearing loss, water getting trapped, and a build-up of thick or dry skin in the ear, along with recurring infections. Head Injuries And Concussions There are many possible ways that head injuries may occur while surfing, one of the most common being a surfboard hitting a surfer. With this in mind, some after-effects may include dizziness, confusion, and blurry vision. If a surfer sustains repeated head injuries, there may also be a chance of serious cognitive issues. Though concussions and other head-based trauma are common under surfers, there is also a chance that a concussion may result in loss of consciousness, with studies showing that up to 9% of participants have lost consciousness due to head trauma while surfing. Shoulder Dislocations As with many other sports, surfing also carries the possibility of dislocation, with shoulder dislocations being some of the most common. Shoulder dislocation may happen for many different reasons but putting your shoulder back into place as soon as possible is imperative since relocating after a dislocation can become more painful if you wait. You may be able to use one of these many techniques to fix your shoulder if you have the help of others; however, in severe cases when surgery is needed, it must get followed with immediate rehabilitation to ensure you can continue surfing. Ankle And Knee Sprains Another set of common surfing injuries are spraints, usually ankle or knee spraints, that may occur due to a wave hitting you too hard or slipping off your surfboard. Unfortunately, this is a common surfing injury since it is easy to have one foot slip off your surfboard while the other remains on the board; with the added pressure from a wave, it is easy for your foot or leg to go in the wrong direction. Cuts And Lacerations From Fins And Other Equipment Cuts and lacerations are the most common surfing injuries and can happen because of your or someone else’s surfboard or equipment or even because of rocks you can’t see or steer clear of. Though some of these may not be serious surfing injuries, it is always best to examine them to ensure you do not get an infection that may keep you out of the water for an extended time. Sunburn And Skin Damage Whether you were out for too long and sustained sunburn or have redness or rashes due to your wetsuit or chafing, these injuries can be very annoying, though they may not be the most severe. You can use several things to protect yourself from getting injured this way, but they are still some of the most common surfing injuries and can make your surfing experience less than optimal. Though most of the skin damage you may sustain as a surfer is minor, there are reports that surfers may be up to three times as likely to develop melanoma, a form of skin cancer. How To Prevent Surfing Injuries And Stay Safe In The Water Below we discuss some ways to avoid injuries and stay safe in the water. Wear Protective Gear, Including Helmets And Rash Guards Protective gear is essential while surfing, and it is best to remember that having fun in a way that will not lead to injury is much more important than looking good. If you want to enjoy surfing for a long time, using protective gear such as helmets to protect you against head injuries and rash guards to help prevent rashes is vital. Many people also recommend using full-length wet suits to help prevent sunburn and the possibility of developing melanoma. Practice Good Surfing Technique And Body Awareness Bad technique and not practicing good body awareness can cause many common surfing injuries discussed above. Whether you’re newer to the sport or have been surfing for years, good technique and body awareness are essential for keeping yourself and other surfers safe. If you use the correct surfing techniques, you lower the chance of sprains, dislocations, and head trauma due to collisions, and body awareness can also help you avoid cuts. Warm Up Properly Before Surfing Another great way to avoid sprains, tears, and dislocations is doing warm-up exercises before you get on your board. Some essential areas to warm up and get loose before you get into the water are your arms and shoulders, legs, glutes, ankles, and neck and back, if possible. You can find some great exercises here if you want to ensure your body is ready … Read more

Surfing Travel Insurance | Protecting Your Trip & Gear

May 1, 2023by Dan Harmon

The list of surf trip costs is endless, from flight tickets to accommodation, transport, food, travel gear, and a new board or two if we’re lucky, and that’s not to mention any coaching and extra activities. But one thing often overlooked, particularly on a budget surf trip, is surf travel insurance—an annoying additional cost but one that is just as essential as your plane ticket. We’re all guilty of it, right? “Ahhh, it’ll be fine; I won’t need insurance; that would be a waste if nothing goes wrong.” On surf trips, everything is, and hopefully will be, fine until it isn’t. Surf trips, by nature, are unpredictable, and there are countless opportunities for things to go awry. But when things go to sh*t, they go to sh*t very quickly, and paradisical dreams can turn into life-threatening nightmares in seconds. If you’ve got no cover to back yourself up in emergencies, then you not only put yourself in a dangerous (and potentially life-threatening) situation but under a mountain of debt you’ll be paying back for years to come. However, with a small pre-trip payment, you can prevent such situations and give yourself the peace of mind you won’t finish the trip with a $10,000 medical bill, injured or stranded. Surf travel insurance can also cover you for other surf trip mishaps, such as delayed flights and lost or stolen baggage. In this article, we dive into everything you need to know about surf travel insurance, from what to look for, the essential criteria, why you need it, and the best companies to buy policies from. We have a heap to get through, so let’s dive in. Why Do You Need Surf Travel Insurance? If you’ve been on a surf trip, you won’t need me to tell you how many things can and inevitably will go wrong. From severe injuries and emergency evacuations to stolen boards and delayed flights, surf travel insurance helps you in countless ways: Serious Injury Death Minor surf accidents Traffic collisions (Bali mopeds) Delayed flights Broken surf equipment Lost or stolen baggage Natural disaster But while the list of potential surf travel mishaps is long, not all surf travel insurance companies cover these things. Instead, you’ll have to look at specific policies to see what is and isn’t covered on your respective policy. Always check your policy wording carefully, and no matter what insurance you get, here are the essential criteria for any surf travel insurance policy. Essential Surf Travel Insurance Criteria Medical Expenses This is the big one. Medical expense coverage is crucial for any surf trip. Whether going on a mellow longboarding vacation to Sri Lanka or chasing slabs deep in the Australian desert, medical expenses cover your medical bill should you get injured. For example, if you’ve fallen off and hit the reef at Ulutwau, gotten cut up, and potentially broken a bone, you need to go to the hospital to get checked out and have a cast put on. That doesn’t come free for foreigners in Indonesia. With medical expenses covered by your policy, you can get the care you need without worrying about paying for it immediately. To hammer the importance of this home, I was once on a surf trip to Lakey Peak, Sumabwa, a relatively remote Indonesian surf paradise. One day we were eating lunch, and a surfer was being paddled in from the surf, having badly broken his leg and needing urgent medical attention and pain relief. His friends informed us, and everyone else at the camp, he was an American with no travel insurance! They did a whip round to get as much money together as possible, which I’m sure didn’t completely cover the cost of his hospital transfer and treatment. This is exactly the situation you want to avoid, and for the sake of a few extra dollars, it’s stupid not to get insurance. Medical Evacuation For serious injuries and life-threatening situations, medical evacuation insurance is needed. Hopefully, you’ll never need this, but when you do, you’ll be super thankful you had it! Let’s say you’re on a surf trip to the Mentawaiis (if you’ve been there, you’ll know how frickin remote it is). You get a head or spinal injury from hitting the shallow reef and need urgent care. The closest hospital is Padang–usually a 4-hour boat trip, but you need a helicopter to airlift you to the hospital in Padang. Padang isn’t the biggest city, and if the hospital there isn’t equipped to deal with your injury, you’ll need to be transferred to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur! Yep, that’s a lot of flying, and costs soon rack up. Medical evacuation covers these costs essential. Personal Liability Another vital aspect of your surf travel insurance coverage is personal liability. In short, this means an injury you cause to someone else. It doesn’t matter how good a surfer you are in crowded line-ups; it only takes a misread of an oncoming section to run over someone. Personal liability coverage helps cover their medical expenses if you injure or seriously hurt them. This is essential for helping them get the care they need (regardless of their insurance) and gives you the peace of mind of not having to pay for their medical expenses. What Does Surf Insurance Typically Cover? What’s covered in your insurance policy will depend on who you purchase cover with, and not all policies will cover the same thing. For example, you’ll want to cover bases such as medical expenses, evacuation, and personal liability, but often things such as baggage delays, damage to equipment, trip cancellations, etc., are things you buy as extras on top of your policy. Well worth considering. Types of Surf Travel Insurance For surf travel insurance, there isn’t a specific company that operates as a sole surf travel insurance provider. Therefore, you must look for extreme sport and adventure travel companies that offer surfing insurance. These companies provide travel insurance for backpackers traveling long term (6 months +), extreme sports … Read more

How Many Times Per Week Should You Surf?

April 21, 2023by Dan Harmon

It sounds dreamy, right? Surfing all day, every day, tropical paradise, not a care in the world! An endless surf trip. However, such a lifestyle is much more difficult and less fun than it may seem. Surprisingly, there is such a thing as too much surfing. For most of us, surfing is a fun pastime, and it should be exactly that. Still, when surfing starts negatively affecting other areas of your life, such as your career, family, and relationships, you must ask yourself some serious questions. In contrast, feeling like you don’t surf enough and stagnating can also take the fun out of surfing. If you can only surf a handful of times in a month and take one surf trip a year, being able to surf how you want to surf is tricky and frustrating. But whether you wish to improve or just enjoy surfing, there must be a perfect balance. A balance between surfing enough to satisfy your appetite and still having time to thrive in your personal and professional life. This article explores this balance. We dive into all the aspects involved with achieving a healthy relationship with surfing and establishing a surf frequency to suit you. There is no one answer to finding the ideal amount of surfing; it’s all down to you. The Benefits & Risks of Surfing Daily It’s tricky weighing up the benefits and risks of surfing every day. And while surfing all day every day sounds amazing, it takes a massive toll on your body! (Let’s face it, we’re not all John Florence and can’t all surf for ten hours daily). However, surfing as much as possible has both positives and negatives. Benefits Progress The best way to get better at surfing is to surf as much as possible. You can do all the out-of-water training in the world, eat healthily, and watch every surf movie ever made, but unless you’re in the water surfing, there is nothing you can do to 100% replicate surfing. Therefore, progression will be limited. You only have to look at the best surfer you know and see how much time they spend in the water. Chances are the best surfers you know are out there at any chance they get! The more waves you surf, the more you expose yourself to different conditions, familiarise yourself with equipment and gather more surfing/ocean reference points. Everything you notice, whether it be how a wave breaks to where to push through a turn, are all references that build up the more your surf. You’ll develop stronger muscle memory when performing maneuvers through sheer repetition, and the more you surf, the more opportunity you’ll have to practice such maneuvers. Enjoyment Let’s face it, we surfers are a greedy bunch, and the more waves we can catch, the happier we are. We’re all guilty of it, taking waves off inferior surfers, getting “one more” wave, and staying out for another 2 hours; it’s part of our nature! While this may seem selfish, the more water time and barrel vision you can clock up significantly affect surfing enjoyment; just imagine it, two weeks straight of getting barreled every day–euphoria. Risks Injury If you’re not super fit, surfing every day all of a sudden can easily lead to overexertion and injury. You can’t go from sitting at a desk for 8 hours per day to surfing all day and expect your body to say, yep, that’s ok; I feel great! Just think back to your last surf trip; you’ll know first-hand how sore and tired you feel after that first day. Surfing with sore and tight muscles only takes a tweak in an awkward position to blow out a knee or twist an ankle. Being Surfed Out If you’ve ever been on a surf trip for ten days or more, you know how hard it is to surf all day for that long. It doesn’t matter how good the waves are or even how much your surf; surfing for more than 5 hours a day is hard, let alone for consecutive days! Even the world’s best need rest days. Surfing too much can also majorly affect your surf motivation, leading to passing up sessions you would have previously been frothing for. So while this is one of the better surf frequency issues, you can surf too much. And surfing as much as possible (as a long-term goal) isn’t necessarily ideal either. For example, if you got paid to surf, whether creating content (like me) or surfing professionally, going surfing can feel like a full-time job, which is a strange feeling because it’s the best job in the world, right? But if you add finances and pressure to anything, it can feel more of a chore than a fun past time. So how do you do it? How do you strike that perfect balance between surf, rest, family, and your professional life? How do you combine these aspects to achieve a healthy life and a good relationship with surfing? Let’s find out! Surfing for Optimal Progression Whether you’re surfing for enjoyment or progression, there are a few considerations that will affect how much you progress in surfing. Water time, conditions, equipment, and enjoyment are the main ingredients for facilitating surf progression. Water Time I know I said above that getting surfed out can be detrimental to your surfing, but the fact remains the more time yous end surfing, the better you get. However, randomly surfing and repeating the same mistakes and bad habits will stagnate your surfing, resulting in the opposite effect. Instead, you want to combine lots of water time with focused sessions, where you consciously go out and work on specific maneuvers. Add in some video analysis coaching, and you have fast-tracked surf progression. Fitness Knowing your fitness level is massive in finding your optimum amount of surfing. And if you want to improve, it’s in your interest to get fit in and out of the water. If you can’t make … Read more

The Ultimate Guide to Yoga for Surfing

March 31, 2023by Dan Harmon

woman in black tank top and black leggings doing yoga on blue yoga mat on water, yoga for surfing, she is doing yoga to improve surfing

Surfing and yoga are not an unusual duo. You may have noticed yoga & surf retreats all over popular surf travel destinations. While surfing and yoga may seem unrelated, the two have much in common. Taking up yoga for surfing will do wonders for your on-water surf capability, fitness and skills. Consistent yoga will help ease aches and pains from long sessions, increase paddle strength, improve balance, and prevent injuries. Aside from the physical benefits of yoga to your surfing skills, there is the mental side of yoga. Doing yoga helps you focus on your breath, which tends to calm the body making it super useful if you have a wipeout or dive through a wave. The benefits of yoga are numerous, and in this guide, you will understand why surfers do yoga. 8 Best Types of Yoga for Surfing Originating from India, Yoga is an ancient practice that dates back to 3000 BCE. Its practices involve deliberate stillness, balancing, stretching, and breathing periods. The benefits of yoga are widely documented. But does yoga help with surfing? Yes, yoga helps with surfing; regardless of whether you practice it on a paddleboard or dry land, it offers incredible benefits. Here are some types of yoga you can practice improving your surfing performance. 1. Yoga for Surfing: Warrior 1 – Virabhadrasana In yoga, there are different types of warrior poses, but what differentiates them is the alignment of your hips. In warrior 1 or virabhadrasana, your hips are facing front. As such, you will have a deep stretch in your rear leg. With your front leg bent almost at a 90-degree angle, it also helps activate the muscles in your front leg. Also, keep your front knee secure and stable when trying to get in this position. When practicing the warrior 1 positioning, lift your hands to get more into this stretch and ensure your shoulders are relaxed. Generally, this pose is great for surfers to practice as it helps your hip become more flexible and increases your stability. 2. Yoga for Surfing – Warrior 2: Virabhadrasana II Warrior 2 is another great pose; it improves your balance, works up your hips and groin area, and opens up your chest. From a standing position, place a foot in front and a foot behind at about 5 feet apart. And as you bend your legs deep into the front knee, try to keep your knee in line with your big toes. Also, when practicing the warrior 2 pose, raise your arms at shoulder level and relax your neck. Furthermore, engage your lower belly as you drop your pelvis while ensuring your lower back is straight as possible. Repeat this move on both sides and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds. And while you are in this position, lightly inhale and exhale while ensuring your quadriceps are parallel to the ground. 3. Yoga for Surfing: Pigeon Pose – Eka Pada Rajakapotasana The pigeon pose is one of the most challenging pilates for surfers, but it is efficient if you want to open up your hips and get a deeper stretch. This pose targets your hip flexors and is great for increasing mobility, which are excellent features for surfers. In the pigeon pose, the front leg is bent and lying flat on the yoga mat, while the back leg is straight and being you. Your chest should be relaxed but in a proud position. The pigeon pose is a classic yoga position that offers a fantastic stretch for your glute muscles. As a surfer, this pose aids in improving the flexibility of your hip area. If you aren’t very flexible, using blocks for this pose will be nice. 4. Side Plank Pose – Vasisthasana The side plank pose is another incredible pose that will help strengthen your wrist, shoulders, and abs. It also helps with improving your overall balance. To start with this pose, get into a side plank position with one arm on the ground and the other straight up. Keep your shoulders and core activated and engaged as you get in this position. Also, ensure your body is aligned with a neutral neck. When done well, this pose activates your side core muscles and gets a stretch at the same time. This pose is a good combination because you work out every body part and improve core strength. And if you’d like to make this pose more advanced to help your next surf session, lift your upper foot and hold it with your raised hand. 5. Cobra Pose – Bhujangasana The cobra pose is a great way to increase the spine’s flexibility and relieve pain in the lower back. It involves laying on your stomach with your hand next to your cheek. Ensure your legs are at your back and a hip-width distance. In that position, your hands should be pressed down to lift only your upper body from the ground. And as you lift from the ground, spread your shoulders outwards, and your chest held high. This pose looks similar to how you will lay on a surfboard. When in the cobra pose, have your chest up and slightly bend your back while you try to keep length in your lower back so there is no uncomfortable pressure. Compressing your spine and arching in the spine are common, especially after surfing, so this pose is great to practice before and after surfing. 6. Locust Pose – Shalabhasana The locust pose is more like the inverse of the cobra pose. It is the perfect pose for surfers trying to improve their paddling ability. It involves exhaling and lifting your head, upper torso, legs, and arms away from the floor. In the locust pose, you should rest on your belly, front pelvis, and lower ribs. In this position, you must keep your toes touching as you stretch to reach your legs. At first, reaching your leg seems challenging, but with practice, it gets easier. Remember not to spread your legs apart in this … Read more

Surfing In Australia: Facts You Need To Know

Australia’s Colorful Surfing Past

Why Australia Is A Premier Surfing Destination

Where To Find The Best Surf In Australia

Crescent Head, New South Wales

The Gold Coast, Queensland

Bells Beach, Victoria

Sydney’s Northern Beaches

Treachery Beach, New South Wales

The Pass, Byron Bay

Noosa Heads, Queensland

Exploring Australian Surf Culture

Best Time To Surf In Australia: A Seasonal Guide

Top Surf Spots In Australia: Map And Details

The Gold Cost

Bells Beach

Byron Bay

Bondi Beach

Beginner-Friendly Surfing Destinations In Australia

Australia Surf Camps: What To Expect

The Best Surf Towns In Australia

Accommodation

Food And Dining Out

Getting Around

Activities And Upcoming Events

Conclusion

Body Surfing For Beginners

How Difficult Is Body Surfing?

Health Benefits Associated With Body Surfing

Body Surfing Vs. Surfing: Similarities And Differences

Body Surfing Tips And Tricks: How To Advance Your Skills

Conclusion

Feed Your Stoke. Join the Surf Hungry Crew