Surfing is something I prefer to watch from afar. While I’d probably enjoy the lack of obstacles in my way when on the waves (my proneness to accidents typically involves running into doorways, tripping up stairs, and generally not quite seeing how to move within my own space), I really prefer having the ground under my feet as compared to water.
That said, I admire what surfers can accomplish — The balance required to control the board. The ability to relax and enjoy the beauty of the beach and the ocean. The requisite awareness of your surroundings that allows surfers to catch the wave at just the right moment and ride it back to the shore. Most surfers understand the risk that is involved in their sport, so this piece was written more for those newbies that are considering taking a try on a longboard. Best of luck, and here’s some wisdom from our resident surfing guru on how to navigate the waves for the first time.
Surfing safely
with advice from Hunter Joslin
Surf’s up! The beaches are full of bikinis and surfboards. While communities in popular surfing areas like Southern California and Hawaii may surf year-round, summer is often a time when people new to the sport hit the water.
Whether you’re a newbie like Johnny Utah, on a board for the first time, or a seasoned surfer, there are a few things to remember in order to reduce your chance of injury, in and out of the water.
According to Hunter Joslin, a lifelong surfer and the creator of the Indo Board, “surfing is a great sport that utilizes the entire body, from paddling out to the lineup and catching a wave to standing on your board and balancing while maneuvering the board through your ride back to the shore.” For many beginners, simply standing on the board in the water takes a great deal of work and practice.