If you're looking to improve your surfing technique this summer, this article is for you. The waves are perfect and the weather is ideal for you to put the best tips into practice and improve your surfing. Here are some simple tips to help you enjoy your summer and achieve maximum performance on every wave.
Here are some super easy-to-follow tips that will help you make the most of every wave.
1. Keep Your Center of Gravity Low
If you're one of those who wobble too much when standing on the board, it's time to focus on keeping your center of gravity low. The key here is to feel stable on the board, without losing your posture.
Tip: One of the best methods to improve your surfing technique this summer is when you stand up, imagine you're like a snowboarder or a skater: legs slightly bent and weight distributed between both. Keep your gaze fixed forward (no looking at your feet) and use your arms to balance yourself. The trick is to feel your body adapting to the board, not forcing the movements.
2. Master the "Pop Up" Like a Pro
The "pop up," that movement that allows you to stand up on the board, can be a bit tricky at first. But believe me, once you master it, everything will be much easier. The secret is to practice it out of the water, so that everything flows more naturally in the real moment.
Tip: Lie on the board and practice the "pop up" on dry land. If you do it quickly and smoothly, your body will build that muscle memory. When you're in the water, just make sure not to take too long to get up, because waves don't wait. Practice, practice, practice!
3. Work on Your "Timing" to Catch the Wave
The right moment to stand up on the wave is crucial. If you do it too early, you can lose your balance; if you're late, the wave will pass you by. This is where your intuition and a bit of practice come in.
Tip: Keep observing the wave's movement before launching yourself. The trick is to enter it just as the front part begins to break. It's like the perfect timing for a jump: you need to feel the rhythm of the wave and how it moves. Don't rush, let the wave carry you.
4. Use the "Bottom Turn" to Gain Speed
The "bottom turn" is the movement that allows you to gain speed by moving from the bottom of the wave to the top. It's not only useful for maintaining your speed but also for positioning yourself better for the next tricks.
Tip: When you reach the base of the wave, crouch a little more and turn your whole body towards the top. The trick is to use your feet to propel yourself and your legs to direct your board. The more fluid your "bottom turn," the more control you'll have over your speed.
5. Don't Forget to Breathe and Enjoy
Sometimes, we focus so much on technique that we forget the most important thing: to enjoy. Surfing is about feeling the sea, the waves, and freedom. If you don't take a second to relax and breathe, you might end up exhausted and unwilling to continue.
Tip: If you feel stressed, take a break. Float on your board, look at the horizon, and breathe deeply. Surfing is all about being in the moment. It's not all about being the best, but about enjoying the journey.
6. Practice Reading the Waves
To truly improve your surfing, you need to learn to read the waves. Identifying how the waves will form will help you choose the best one and know when to move towards it.
Tip: Before you jump into the water, observe a couple of waves. Study their shape, size, and the direction in which they break. This will allow you to anticipate which will be the best wave for you. Never underestimate the power of good observation!
We have an article where we mention 5 essential things you need to know to interpret the wave forecast, you can see it here.
Bonus tips:
Listen to your body: Surfing is a physical sport, but don't push yourself more than your body can handle. Take breaks and maintain your energy.
Appropriate equipment: Make sure you have equipment that suits your level and sea conditions. Fly wetsuits are perfect for summer, lightweight and super comfortable.
Have fun: At the end of the day, surfing is about fun and disconnection. Don't obsess over tricks or performance, just enjoy the water.
Remember that improving your surfing technique this summer is a matter of practice and patience. With these small adjustments and tips, you'll notice the difference in your surfing. And best of all, you'll enjoy every time you get in the water much more! This summer, keep learning, keep enjoying, and above all, keep feeling the good vibes of the sea.
And of course, for those epic surf days, make sure you're equipped with Fly. Because summer is for enjoying with style and comfort, and in the water, every detail counts.
