So, you’ve already learned to stand up on the board. That’s a great start, but are you wondering how to take your surfing skills to the next level? For those who want to learn to surf in Bali, the team from Aloha Bali Surf is trained to teach everyone from beginners to advanced surfers. Here we’ve collected some tips to help you progress and improve your surfing skills.
1. Practice, Practice, Practice
We’ve all heard the saying, ‘practice makes perfect.’ This is especially true when it comes to surfing. The more time you can spend in the water and on your board the better you’ll become at surfing. You’ll get more comfortable standing up each day and improve your balance. So, if you’re near a body of water, jump in! If the waves are small, practice paddling or balancing, as that’s half the battle when it comes to surfing.
2. Hone Your Vision
Surfing is much more than just a physical sport, which you’ve probably learned by now if you’ve spent any time in the water. It also requires keen sight and concentration, which means the more you can hone your vision, the better. Think about your eyes when you’re surfing, especially while you’re riding the wave. Keep them open and pay attention; try to read where it’s going and how the swell is moving so you can maneuver your body the right way to stay up as long as possible.
3. Always Stretch
No matter what sport, it’s never a good idea to go in cold, as they say. You should always stretch before and after a surf session. This helps loosen up your muscles and causes them less strain when you’re out in the water and on the board. Stretching can also help you avoid nasty injuries, like pulled muscles or crinks in your neck at the end of the day, so don’t rush into the water without a warmup routine.
4. Practice Yoga
Yoga and surfing might seem miles away, but when it comes right down to it, they’re more alike than you might think. That’s why Aloha Bali Surf offers yoga and surf retreat packages. There are yoga poses to prepare for being out on the water. It will also stretch your muscles and ensure you’re prepared to surf.
5. Practice Proper Breathing
Surfing is an arduous sport that requires a lot of physical endurance. Along with yoga, try preparing for surf sessions by practicing breathing methods to help you control your breath while out on the water. We recommend the Wim Hof Method of breathing.
6. Practice Meditation
Successful surfing is all about being in the moment; so is meditation. Practicing meditation can help provide you the tools you need to clear your mind while you’re out in the water and riding the waves. The fewer distractions there are, the less margin there is for error. Of course, surfing is a form of meditation in itself, but in order to reap the full benefits of meditative surfing, you’ll need to be in the moment the second you step in the water.
7. Develop an Exercise Routine
As previously mentioned, surfing is tough on the body and requires a lot of endurance. But don’t worry, you can prepare yourself by developing an exercise routine that strengthens the muscles you’ll use out on the water. Some of the best exercises to perform to prepare for surfing are pushups, squats, planks, side planks, bird dogs, and ice skaters. No need to employ weights with these exercises, as they’re strenuous enough without them.
8. Try Other Board Sports
Another great way to work on your balance, concentration, and stamina, is to try out other board sports, like snowboarding or skateboarding depending on your locale. If you don’t live in an area that snows regularly, taking up longboarding can be a great way to work on your balance, as well as carving technique. The way you pump and turn on a longboard is very similar to the motions you make while riding a wave, although they’re not exactly the same.
9. Improve Your Wave Knowledge
One of the most important aspects of surfing is knowing when to take a wave or not, as well as the different wave types there are. Studying up on wave types and improving your wave knowledge will make it easier and less strenuous while out surfing. For example, you’ll learn to avoid trying to stand on smaller swells that will simply fizzle out after a few feet, as well as huge waves you don’t feel confident enough to surf yet.
10. Surf with Others
Learning by example is key when it comes to surfing, so don’t just hit the waves alone every day. If you’re out at the beach and see others surfing that might be the same level as you or a little above your level, don’t be afraid to ask to join in; most surfers are laid back and won’t mind sharing a wave or two. Additionally, hang out with people who surf and talk about surfing while you’re not out there doing it; watch surf videos and immerse yourself in the sport. The more time you put into learning about surfing, the more you’ll get out of it and the quicker you’ll progress.
Contact us today to learn to surf in Bali
At Aloha Bali Surf, our instructors are trained to teach everyone from beginners to advanced surfers of all ages. Whether it’s your first time out on the water or you’re a seasoned pro, we’ll make your trip one to remember. We also offer yoga retreats that will help improve both body and mind, so contact us online today or call or WhatsApp us at +1 (949) 942-7217 to book now.
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