Learning to surf alone can be tough. It can also lead to bad habits and the risk of injury. A surf school can connect you with expert instructors who will speed up your progress while helping you nail down proper techniques. Everything from fundamentals to ocean safety training will ensure you build confidence with the right equipment while surrounded by a supportive community.
Many would-be surfers have paddled out into the big, wide ocean—stoked to get the opportunity. That is, of course, until they are tossed around by the waves, struggle to stand for even a moment, and feel completely out of their element, unsure of what they are doing.
There is no denying that learning to surf on your own can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially given the ocean’s power and unpredictability. Without the proper guidance, bad habits can form quickly and slow down any potential progress while increasing your risk of injury. Continuing to try to surf on your own is going to tank your confidence.
A surf school can change everything. You will feel empowered as you learn to sharpen your skills under the direction of professional surfers. With structure, coaching, and ocean awareness, you will be able to take your surfing ability to the next level. Here’s how a surf school can help you learn faster and safer.
Start With the Right Techniques
It can be tough to break old habits that you may have taught yourself. For instance, maybe you have been trying to surf in ways that felt comfortable without even realizing you are making it tougher to surf.
When you invest in a surf school, you are able to learn technique from day one—something you don’t get without guidance. You will learn how to paddle in a way that will allow you to get where you need to be while conserving energy. You will learn how to efficiently pop up so that you are standing faster. You will learn how to read the waves, choose the right ones, and time your takeoff like a pro. And this is only a small portion of your takeaway. With a surf school, you get these fundamentals right away.
Moreover, when you have a strong foundation, you will be able to progress at a much faster speed —without having to try the ol’ trial and error method. If you are serious about being a surfer, this is where it starts.
Personalized Coaching
We do not all learn the same way and in the same amount of time. And every surfer has strengths in different areas. Personalized coaching makes a huge difference because you can learn how you learn best.
Working closely with skilled coaches, they will be able to watch your movements in real time and give you feedback right away, saving you from picking up bad habits. You can refine your balance or adjust your positioning—small tweaks that will make a huge difference in how quickly you build your technique.
As you feel better about what you are doing, your level of confidence will improve, too. You will be able to overcome any reservations you have while progressing at your own pace. No more guessing; it is all about learning and growing.
The Importance of Ocean Safety
The ocean can be breathtaking, but it can also be unpredictably dangerous, too. Understanding how it works is essential for every surfer, regardless of skill level. Beginners need to learn to identify rip currents and changing conditions. They should also get to know wave patterns and tide movement. Navigating the water while remaining safe is crucial.
Further, you aren’t likely to be the only surfer in the water. So, knowing proper surf etiquette and how to avoid injury is another valuable tool to have. It’s not only about keeping you safe, but it is also about making your overall experience more joyful.
Utilizing the Right Equipment
It is common for beginner surfers to start off learning on the wrong board. It is one of the reasons so many struggle as they are learning. Some boards are too small and difficult to control. Switching it up can make all the difference.
When you join a surf school, you will be provided with the right equipment to help you get started. That means a beginner-friendly, soft top board, wetsuit, and various other types of equipment, as needed. Why? Because when your gear supports your progress, your time in your surf session becomes more productive.
Join a Community
Surfing is not just a sport; it is a way of life. And when you join a surf school and grow as a surfer, you will find yourself in a lifestyle built around connection, respect for nature, and shared experiences.
You will engage with other surfers when you take your lessons or when you are in the water practicing what you just learned. Along the way, you will find encouragement and build lifelong friendships. All of this makes learning how to surf even more rewarding.
Overcome Your Fears
Finally, joining a surf school means overcoming your fears. It can be scary for newbies who are sitting alone on a board watching a big wave come in their direction. You may have a fear of falling or a fear of wiping out. Maybe you aren’t sure which wave is a go and which one you just need to ride out.
As instructors who have met many beginners over the years, we feel that fear is one of the biggest obstacles students face. We will help you move past those fears using clear instructions, encouragement, and providing a safe learning environment.
When you have confidence in the water, you will become a surfer.
Find Feelings of Freedom At Malibu Makos
Can you close your eyes and imagine yourself paddling out with confidence, popping up smoothly, and riding your first clean wave all the way to shore? That’s the feeling of freedom and excitement that comes with learning how to surf. And you are closer than you think to experiencing it.
At Malibu Makos, located at Zuma Beach, we are very passionate about helping surfers of all levels, especially beginners, learn fast and surf safely. We want you to enjoy every moment in the water with confidence. Our experienced instructors and personalized lessons make all the difference.
What are you waiting for? Book your private surf lesson today. Or sign up for surf camps!
