5 Tips to Take Your Surfing to the Next Level

1. Dial-in your local spot

Now that you have gotten down the basics, start to dial-in your local breaks. Take note of key pieces of information, such as what tides and swell directions work best at your beach. There are many online tools you can use (Surfline, SwellMagnet, MagicSeaweed, etc), but also know that the most critical information comes from experience at that break. When you are sitting in the lineup, notice where surfers are taking off to get the best lines. Basic observation can go a long way in learning the ideal places to be to catch the best waves. 

2. Think about the little things

This one may sound vague, but it pays to be conscientious of small habits you create each session. For example, a lot of beginners do not realize how important it is to keep their feet together when paddling. Not only does this help not look like a kook, but it is critical to balance and core strength. 

3. Try different boards

Photo by Thalia Surf // Gato Heroi boards by Robin Kegel

Once you are comfortable and confident with your surfing, try as many boards as possible to find what volume works for you. Perhaps you enjoy the looseness of a single fin or the quick turns of a thruster. There is a big difference between buying different boards and trying different boards, so do not make the mistake of stocking your quiver with boards that do not suit your body dimensions and/or skill level.  

4. Master your duck dive 

Photo by Richard Kotch

You probably already have this down, but there is always room for improvement! In order to catch the waves of your dreams, you have to be able to get to them! Try to push yourself a little deeper with each dive and in no time you will be ready for whatever massive wall of water comes your way.

5. Keep a surf journal

Having a surf journal can be rewarding for multiple reasons. A journal helps you track your progress and taps into your stoke levels of each session. It is also fun to have a log of all your adventures. Nothing is better than looking back to a dream session you had and reliving stoke that you recorded. A surf journal can also help you keep track of the best tides, swell directions, conditions, etc. when that dream session happened so when the same conditions recur, you can be ready to go. Your journal is an expression of yourself. It can be written on paper or it can be captured with photos and videos. Find what works best for you and go from there!

…But of course, the best way to improve your surfing is to SURF. So get out there and have fun! See you in the lineup!