Surfing: Ride Waves, Experience Thrills & Conquer New Height

How to Catch an Unbroken Wave Like a Surfing Pro

April 4, 2023December 19, 2019 by Luke

SURFER CATCHING AN UNBROKEN WAVE, SHOWING HOW TO CATCH AN UNBROKEN WAVE

Surfing is one of the best watersports to ease your stress and at the same time allow you to maintain a healthy body. To enjoy this sport, aside from learning how to swim and paddle, catching an unbroken wave is one of the fundamental skills that you need to master in surfing. Today, we are going to give you insights on how to catch a green wave like a surf pro. And by catching a green wave, we mean riding it throughout without having to nose-dive or getting passed over. The followings are the tips and tricks that you need to keep in mind when it comes to catching a green wave. How to Catch a Wave: The Ultimate Guide #1. Study the different phases of the wave. Before anything else, you might want to study the different phases of the wave. This is important to master before the positioning. Phase 1 – During this phase, the wave is just a ‘bump.’ When the tide is still at its first stage, try not to catch it. This ‘bump’ should only serve as an indication that a wave is about to hit. Phase 2 – Now that you know that a wave is coming, this is the time when you will see what they call the “green wave.” A green wave is an unbroken wave that has steepness and power, which allows surfers to paddle on it. A wave in its first phase is not powerful enough to catch, and in the next stage, it will be too vertical and dangerous to catch. Phase 3 – At this point, the wave will start to break. The lip of the wave will now come crashing down into the water. Surfers often do not catch this type of wave because it’s too powerful and can cause potential danger, especially if you are still a beginner surfer. Phase 4 – This is the final phase of the wave, where it has been completely broken down and joins the white-water wave. #2. Position yourself. Observe how both beginners and professionals in surfing wait in line for the best set of waves to hit. At the beach, you’ll find them sitting on their boards and patiently waiting as they position themselves. Do the same and find an excellent place to wait for the perfect waves to come. When positioning yourself, keep your nose pointed towards the upcoming waves. But when you see the wave coming, make sure that your board is turned away to help you get ready. #3. Start paddling. Now that you know how to determine a green wave get into the water and start paddling. To avoid combating the breaking waves, try going to the left or right side of the waves. It will also be easier for you to catch it. But be mindful of your timing. When a wave breaks, it comes in a set of fours. Observe the waves from the shore, and you will notice that in-between sets, there is a slight pause. That pause will serve as your cue, and it is usually the best time to hit. #4. Get on your feet. Now that you’ve managed to catch the green wave, it’s time to pop up! There are two methods by which you can pop up effectively. First is by pushing yourself up and then hopping to your feet in one swift motion. The second method is by pulling yourself up on your knees and then slowly rising to your feet. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. It is crucial that you practice the pop-up in the sand before you plunge into the water. The popping up is the trickiest and hardest part that you need to master in surfing. It’s all about timing and maintaining your balance on the board. Otherwise, you will fall face-first into the water. But don’t be discouraged if you can’t pop up right away. Practising in both sand and water can do wonders for your popping-up skills. #5. Ride the wave. If you’ve managed to catch the best wave and pop up at the right time, you can now ride the wave. The zoom of the momentum when riding the wave is what surfers are living for. Here you would feel in control, so be confident and dominant in riding the waves. After many trials and errors, this is the moment that you’ve been waiting for. So, make sure to ride the wave with ease, have fun, and you can even strike a pose if you want. Also, don’t get stuck up when you’re on top of the waves, as it can send you nose-diving into the water when you fall. #6. Change positions when you get thrown off. We get it the frustration is running through your veins when you get thrown off your board by a powerful wave. If you notice that you keep on falling down, it’s high time that you change positions. For instance, if you’re leaning too much forward, you can try to arch back on your board to gain full control. And when you start to ride the waves, arch your back so you can maximize the weight in your thighs and legs. Make sure that you don’t catch a wave in its final stage, as it will automatically pitch you, forwards. When this happens, you will lose control and fall into the water. Frequently-Asked Questions (FAQ’s) Q: What is the best thing to do when I can’t catch a passing wave? A: When you can’t catch a wave after several passes, try to shift your weight forward. When you’re too far back on your surfboard, catching a wave can be a little tricky. The nose of your board should only be a couple of inches out from the water. It is also advisable that you start paddling early so that you’ll have higher chances of catching the green waves and gaining more speed when it reaches your position. Even … Read more

Bodyboarding vs Surfing: The Ultimate Rivalry

December 17, 2023December 9, 2019 by Luke

To stay slim and fit, it is crucial to engage yourself in recreational activities. However, it is not limited to lifting weights in the gym or doing squats in your room before the day ends. This generation’s definition of recreational activities has become bolder, more fun, and more thrill. Surfing and bodyboarding have become popular for teenagers and adults who want to have real fun in the water. However, bodyboarding and surfing are often used interchangeably. While both sports make use of a board to ride the waves, there is a glaring difference between the two. If you are still reluctant if you want to try bodyboarding vs. surfing, perhaps you should differentiate the two sports first to know which one is the most appropriate for you. Below is an article that will teach you the difference between bodyboarding vs. surfing. It will also help you choose the most suitable watersports for you. Bodyboarding Bodyboarding is an exciting and beginner-friendly watersport that will allow you to enjoy hours of sea-based sports. Bodyboarding will enable you to grab a few high waves in the ocean, just like surfing. Here are the basics that you need to consider if you want to get started. The Basics of Bodyboarding Swimming – You might want to work on your swimming technique first. In order to be good in bodyboarding, you must be an excellent swimmer. There will be times when you’re going to lose grip of your board. It may give you the peace of mind knowing that you can always find your way back into the shore when you slip because you know how to swim. Weather forecasting – understanding the forecast is also a crucial part of bodyboarding. It works the same as surfing or flying your kite. Knowing your timing will help you catch the waves effortlessly. Weather forecasts and weather conditions play a significant role in both surfing and bodyboarding. Before you grab your board and head into the sea, it might benefit you to check if it’s going to rain this afternoon first. Riding the waves in a good weather condition will not only allow you to enjoy the water and the sun but also helps you to lessen the risks of injuring yourself while on the sea. Board – your board, will depend on your physique. Muscular men don’t use the same board as slender women. Make sure that your board is easy to manage and allows you to ride the waves with little to no hassle. Pros #1. Bodyboarding will help you to stay fit and muscular all year round. Do you ever wonder why bodyboarders have a chiseled, muscular definition? It’s because paddling helps to tone the muscles in the arms. So, if you want to get fit, you might want to give bodyboarding a try. #2. Bodyboarding is an excellent anti-stress remedy. Whenever you’re feeling down, or you can’t seem to manage your stress properly, hitting the beach and catching the waves can work magic for you. Numerous studies have also proven that people who spend their hours in wave sports are happier and more knowledgeable in managing their stress. #3. Bodyboarding will get you closer to nature. If you want a recreational activity that involves getting in contact with the environment, bodyboarding is the right wave sports for you. It promotes body relaxation and improvement to your overall well-being. #4. Bodyboarding is easier, and some would say, safer compared to surfing. Since you are only dealing with smaller waves, the risks of getting injured in the water are reduced. Cons #1. Bodyboarding will most likely give you a gnarly rash if you don’t wear a proper wetsuit. This is not ideal for people who have sensitive skin. #2. It is only ideal for kids who want to get started in surfing. Adults may find it difficult to bodyboard, especially when they’re not in a fit physique. Surfing Surfing, undoubtedly, is more popular compared to bodyboarding. It requires months and years of practice before you can perfectly stand up on your surfboard and catch the big waves. Here are some surfing basics that you need to consider if you are still starting: The Basics of Surfing Paddling – the first thing that you need to learn before you surf is paddling. Always keep in mind that it is not advisable to paddle using both of your arms simultaneously. The crawl stroke is the best paddling technique for surfing. It will stabilize the speed until you’re ready to catch the wave. Sitting on the board – when you sit on your surfboard, you mustn’t make any unnecessary movements. If you are calm and poised, you will not experience any wobbly changes. Weather forecasting – just like bodyboarding, you need to learn weather forecasting as well. Since surfing involves deeper water and bigger waves, it is crucial that you know how to read the weather so that you don’t plunge into the water when the wind is bad and the seas violent. Pros #1. Surfing is considered as one of the best cardiovascular exercises. When you use your upper body to paddle and your legs in guiding the board, you’ll be able to build your endurance. As a result, your heart is healthier. #2. Surfing is also a great stress reliever. It can do wonders for your mental health. Surfing has shown positive results for managing stress and improving your mood. #3. Surfing helps to promote vitamin D in your body. When you spend hours under the sun, you will not only develop good muscles, but you will also strengthen your bones. The vitamin D helps in regulating the calcium and phosphorus in your blood. It also helps in promoting the growth of skin cells, leaving you with glowing, healthy skin, and strong bones. #4. Surfing also helps in improving your balance. It improves your balance that you can not only use in surfing but also in your everyday routines. Cons #1. Surfing is more dangerous … Read more

Longboards vs Shortboards: What You Should Know

July 20, 2023December 4, 2019 by Luke

If you are into the hype and thrill that surfing brings, one of the dilemmas you will face in engaging in the sport is choosing between a longboard or a shortboard. Both these types of surfing boards are great to use. But there are specific differences that you should look into before you decide on what you should use. In this article, we will talk about the differences between using a longboard and shortboard and the pros and cons of these two types of surfboards. Longboards vs. Shortboards: The Ultimate Review Shapes and Sizes Given its name, longboards are longer compared to shortboards. Because of its length, longboards provide a number of key benefits to surfers. One would be having more stability when surfing. Since the board is long, there is more space to plant your feet on the surface area, which is pressed against the water. Thus, giving riders a more stable experience when using longboards. Longboards are excellent choices for people who are still starting with the sport. Longboards are usually 9 to 12 feet long and have a single fin and a rounded nose. However, nowadays, a lot of people opt to choose three fin setups as they help surfers make maneuvers and turn without sacrificing the board’s buoyancy and its movement on the waves. Compared to longboards, shortboards are shorter in length, which makes it harder for beginners to use. The great thing about shortboards is that their design provides more freedom for surfers to move around compared to longboards. A lot of professional surfers use shortboards as they possess an aerodynamic design and shape, giving better maneuverability among their users. Making sharp cuts into waves are more doable and possible when you use a shortboard. Aside from maneuverability, shortboards pick up more speed. So, as you hit a wave at the right angle, you can propel the shortboard into the water by using your body’s momentum. Everything is all about timing. You get to maximize your speed once you hit the wave at the right time with your shortboard. Materials Used for Longboards and Shortboards Regardless of their sizes, most of the surfboards found in the market are using some foam. The first surfboards have used polyurethane foam, in which the surfboard maker would form a plane from a blank foam sheet before a polyester resin is encased. Today, epoxy resin and a prolapse polystyrene foam are used by makers in creating surfboards, compared to polyester and polyurethane, which might be very soft for the strain where the surfer places his board under. Surfboards are using a fiberglass cloth for the construction, plus the type of process involved is based on the kind of foam and resin being used in the core. Polyurethane boards utilize foam, while the resin is applied by expanded polystyrene and epoxy boards. Surfboards using these materials are all handmade, but because of technology, more machines are put up to create hundreds or thousands of surfboards. The core of the surfboard uses a fiberglass cloth for lining, and multiple coats of resin are used for lamination. Afterwhich, the board’s surface is then given a smooth finish. Types of Waves for Longboards Longboards offer surfers a smooth cruise along the waves and catch waves without showing much effort with these boards draw very different lines. Professional surfers can do tricks while using the longboard. They can up walk up and down the board or walk right to the nose with their toes hanging over the end. If there are five toes on the nose, you call it “hang five” and if 10, of course, “hang ten!” Surfers using longboards feel like they are dancing with the waves, compared with using surfboards. If you want to learn how to surf, longboards are highly recommended for you as they are more stable, which makes it easier for you to catch some waves. Types of Waves for Shortboards Aside from the design, one of the most noticeable differences between shortboards and longboards would be the type of waves they are riding and the style of surfing a wave. Compared to longboards, shortboards allow surfers to draw faster lines, which enables surfers to go into quicker and steeper waves. Also, surfers using shortboards can do more radical aerials and turns, even if they are in the most critical parts of the wave. Paddling With Longboards vs. Shortboards Longboards have the same technique as shortboards. However, there is an alternative for surfers using longboards. They have the option to kneel on the board while using both their hands all at once to increase their speed as they propel the board forward. Surfers can also spot set waves easily. Shortboards, on the other hand, differ on how they are being paddled towards the lineup. Surfers will have to lay on their shortboards and do a front crawl stroke to move their boards into the waves and around the lineup. Longboards are easier to paddle out than shortboards. You need to lay your stomach down on your longboard, and you can propel your board through the water. Just make sure that a big wave does not break on top of you, then you can easily navigate through the water. The History of Longboards Longboards were the first ones to be used by surfers as they were created in the 1500s. Even though longboards have been constructed from different materials, its basic form has always been the same throughout time. As popular as shortboards, longboards provide more options for surfers as they engage in this thrilling sport. If you are the type of person who likes to immerse in the classic surfing your ancestors have experienced before, then longboards are what you need. These boards, which are originally made from wood, have been existing for thousands of years now. Longboards were used by the Hawaiian royalty since they were not only used for fun activities. Longboards have been used as a spiritual tool to resolve tribal conflicts. Regular longboards … Read more

Common Surfing Mistakes to Avoid

April 3, 2023December 4, 2019 by Luke

MAN LEARNING TO SURF WITH INSTRUCTOR POINTING OUT COMMON SURFING MISTAKES

Many of you might think that the most common surfing mistakes first-time surfers make involve an embarrassing wipeout or painful injury. As a beginner, you can need to take note of these common surfing mistakes to avoid. However, you’d be surprised to hear that more of these mistakes come from overlooking some surfing basics. In this article, we’ve listed the eight most common surfing mistakes beginner surfers like you might make and how to avoid them. With enough practice, you’ll be catching perfect waves in no time! In this article: Overlooking Your Swimming Skills Not Getting Enough Stamina Training Choosing the Wrong Surfing Conditions Surfing with the Wrong Board Not Knowing How and Were to Paddle Badly Timing Your Pop up Popping up on the Wrong Spot of the Board Standing with an Incorrect Posture 8 Common Surfing Mistakes Beginners Make and How to Avoid Them #1. Overlooking Your Swimming Skills Going out surfing without honing your swimming skills first is a big mistake, especially if you’re a beginner. With that said, make sure you’ve honed your swimming skills before catching those waves. Knowing just a few strokes isn’t going to cut it. Remember, you’ll be facing tall waves and deep waters out there, so your swimming abilities must be up to par. Recovering after being thrown off by a massive wave is also an important skill to hone before riding your first wave. You can only do this with constant and diligent practice. How to avoid this mistake: Make it a point to practice both basic and advanced swim strokes every day. Dedicate at least one hour of your day for exercising. Don’t surf until you’re sure of your skills. 2. Not Getting Enough Stamina Training Every sport is physically demanding. Surfing is no exception. First-time surfers tend to underestimate just how tiring surfing can be. It takes a lot of energy to paddle against the current and stand on your board to ride a wave. And to do it over and over again requires strength and stamina. Don’t overlook your physical strength and stamina. Surfing is a physically demanding activity, so you have to make sure your body’s up for it. How to avoid this mistake: Add strength training regular workout regimen. Exercising with dumbbells and doing a few weight lifts is an excellent way to start. You should also include endurance exercises to your workout so that you can stay in the water longer. #3. Choosing the Wrong Surfing Conditions It’s not easy to predict the weather, which makes it just as hard to tell if the conditions to surf are ideal (or not). If veteran surfers still find it hard to surf forecast, what more a beginner surfer like you? Learning how to forecast surf conditions might sound advanced, but it’s simple and exciting. In surf forecasting, you’ll learn how the wind and swell work together to create the perfect wave, among other things. It’s a skill that won’t just give you a better experience. Knowing the optimal conditions for surfing will also keep you safe when you go out into the water. How to avoid this mistake: Start paying attention to daily weather reports. Learn more about surf forecasting through self-study. You can also consult surf forecast apps and websites to help you know when it’s best to surf in your area. #4. Surfing with the Wrong Board One of the most common surfing mistakes beginners like you might make choosing the wrong surfboard. Keep in mind that the right surfboard should be proportional to your size, thickness, weight, and skill level. For beginners, it’s better to start with longer surfboards as they’re more comfortable and safer to use. If you’re a little on the heavy side, opt for lightweight boards. Apart from taking your height and weight into considerations, you should also choose a board based on the kind of waves you’ll be catching. Surfboards come in different shapes, which gives you a different surf experience based on the waves you’ll ride. How to avoid this mistake: As a rule of thumb, first-time surfers should get boards that are longer, thicker, and heavier. The added length, thickness, and weight help you keep your balance in the water. You can transition to using a shortboard when you’re more experienced. #5. Not Knowing How and Where to Paddle Not knowing how and where to paddle is also among the most common surfing mistakes a beginner can commit. Paddling is an essential part of surfing as it’s your primary way of reaching the waves. Knowing how to paddle is one thing, but knowing where to paddle to is another. When you’re paddling out, steer clear of the whitewater. Also, make sure you’re out of other surfers’ way. They need their space, too! How to avoid this mistake: Practice your paddling while you’re on dry land. Lay down on your surfboard and exercise your arms. When you’re in the water, paddle at least five meters past the whitewater before setting yourself up to ride a wave. #6. Badly Doing Your Pop up Catching your first wave is nothing less than exciting. However, the chance to ride that wave can quickly be ruined by a poorly-executed pop-up. Among the common surfing mistakes beginner surfers make is to use their knees to pop-up on their surfboards. When you notice yourself doing this, stop! Popping up with your knees slows you down and decenters your weight. Remember, popping up on your surfboard should be quick and precise. The more precise your pop-up, the better your surf experience will be. How to avoid this mistake: Your pop-up should be like a push-up. Keep your body centered and legs together. Land your hands and chest flat on the board. When you’re ready to pop-up, use your hands to push against your surfboard in one quick, smooth motion. Remember, land on your feet and not on your knees. Practice this motion when you’re on dry land until you master it. #7. Popping up … Read more

Quad vs Thruster Fins: The Ultimate Face Off

April 11, 2023September 22, 2019 by Luke

closeup photo of two white surfboards with quad vs thruster fins

The increasing number of surfboards in the market today are brought by shapes and sizes designed according to surfer’s preference. Aside from the profiles and dimensions of the boards, another feature that surfers look at is its fin setup. The question of whether which fin setup is better always arises especially when you are trying to let go or hold on to the board you have been riding. The thought of not having enough to too much fin setup leaves you wondering which is better, quad or thruster fins. This dilemma has been experienced not just by surfers trying to change the board they currently have but for curious onlookers too. Wondering which setup helps to do more vertical turns or gain more speed are just a few factors why snooping surfers ask. So, which is better? Quad or thruster? The Dawn of Fins To get a better idea of which setup is better, understanding how they came about and their purpose is where you should start. It wasn’t until 1935 that fins were experimented to be part of surfboards. Before fins, planks were poor in managing the ripples that waves would produce. When fins came about, it kept riders poised up the surfboard with less difficulty. Its evolution over the years brought us from the birth of single-fin to different assortments of fin setups. This improvement allowed for boards to interchange between thrusters and quads. Fins are not just an accessory to make your surfboard look professional. They are significant in defining how you ride. They account for half of your would-be performance. That means, its not just the board that lets you ride better. Fins, with their adequate set of, proper placement, and correct configuration enhance your ride, even more so satisfies you ultimately in the waves. Quad vs Thruster Fins Amongst the many fin setup for boards, quads and thrusters are the most preferred choices, especially in modern shortboards. Both can work in all conditions but it all boils down to personal fondness. They equally have advantages and disadvantages with different feelings and lines drawn on the waves. Quad Fin Setup Having superior down-the-line speed to thrusters is the quad fin setup. This is because of the removal of the center fin that lessens the drag. The added grip and speed offered by quad setup can be put to good use particularly in fast, heavy, and hollow waves. Not to mention its speed and tight turning abilities contribute to the quad’s strength in smaller, peaky, and weaker swells. It is important to take note of where to place the quad fin plugs on the tail of your board. The distance between fins and whether they are close to the tails affects how they perform. The closer the fins are clustered together and the further back they are set, the more they act like a thruster. The farther apart they sit together and the closer they are to the rail, the quicker they are down the line. It also helps to make your board become a tighter turning arc. Riding the Quad Fin Setup Speed Quad fins help hold and change direction even when they produce drag when surfing in a straight line. Shapers’ purpose in modeling the board is to channel the water through the back of the board. The water that hits the thruster’s tail fin slows you down. Water tearing out of the back tail unobstructed does not account for losing speed. This provides more advantages in smaller surf. The bottom line is a rider with a thruster generates his speed while a quad naturally screams down the line. Sizeable Surf A greater number of big wave surfers choose quad fins when taking on risky breaks such as Jaws and Mavericks. The two fins near the rail working together are what makes the superior hold in larger surf. Outrunning a bomb is always better with a faster board with more hold. Response Aside from the ease in going rail to rail with more fins further up the board, it also helps direct the board with more control in less response time. This is because they hold a higher line in sharper waves and generate more drive through a turn. Looseness Everyone wants that fast but loses feeling while maintaining control and this is exactly what quad fins offer. The lack of the back fin which acts as thrusters make it and freer all the while allowing you to add a bit of length to your curves and helping you hold speed through turns. What riders don’t like about quad fin setups is that they can be somewhat unpredictable to ride. They are not easy to slow down especially when you are trying to stall or wash off speed. Which Quad Fin to Try? Alpha Quad Fin by Futures Controller delivers the highest performance when it comes to maintaining a great balance of spring, hold, and predictability. Its special composite design along with the help of 3M makes them great for creating a ride at the local beach as they give you greater control than a thruster configuration. Quads are ideal for: Small days for: To make flat sections To get enough speed to ride the wave Hollow days because they: Are quicker than thrusters Have fins on each side that hold better for sharp take offs Jump the line in barreling conditions where there is not much room to do turns Thruster Fin Setup The most common of fin configuration is the thrusters. Simply because they work. They are the most balanced and conventional fin setup. Thrusters are fast and they give excellent control with unbeatable balance of drive, speed, and maneuverability as you push through turns. With a lot of fins configurations, you’d wonder why thruster setup remains. Thruster setup is the go-to for surfboards because they are ideal for those super ripple days. While you can get your quad in small waves or hollow water conditions that are down the line, thruster … Read more

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