We get this question a lot from our first-timers, and it is a valid one since we know that surfing lessons are not exactly a cheap experience.
In reality, a good and reputable surf school can improve your surfing curve exponentially and do wonders for anyone who wants to learn surfing, whether they are 5 or 70 years old.
We covered some questions so you can understand a little more about why taking a surf lesson.
YOU WON’T LEARN TO SURF VIA INTERNET OR YOUTUBE
Sure, videos and information can help you get a better grasp of the sports and training but, it will never teach you in real life the dangers of the ocean and how to properly ride a wave.
Surfing is a fast sport, which means that if you get good at it, you can ride a wave for about 20 to 30 seconds. This means that there is not a lot of room for thinking and analyzing once you enter a fight or flight mode.
In a lesson, you have an expert person to show you the dangers of the ocean and keep you safe while you learn what to do to make the process easier.
WHAT BOARD TO USE
It may sound silly and not a very complex topic since you can find plenty of information online but, the board you ride will make a complete difference in your results.
A lot of people want to learn to surf on the cool-looking shortboards. But we can tell you right now that they aren’t ideal. Your best bet is to learn to surf on big stables boards – soft-top boards.
Surf schools have correct boards set up for beginners.
DO I START SURFING ON WAVES OR SAND?
Well, it seems kind of obvious but most people answer this question wrong. If you are new to surfing you definitely want to start learning on the sand.
Learning how to stand up on a board and the proper way to push up is not exactly easy, especially because of the timing. It requires a lot of practice and whenever you get to the water you won’t have time to do it all in a couple of seconds without practice.
WHERE TO LEARN HOW TO SURF?
Surf schools are strategically positioned in beaches that have the best waves for beginners. The ocean plays a big role when you are starting and having good conditions can be decisive for loving or hating the sport.
Also, a beginner usually does not know swell, winds and tides, so relying on people and schools with knowledge is an important step to have a safe experience.
AM I TOO OLD TO LEARN TO SURF?
The answer will always be no. Surfing is a sport that you can pick up at any age. Of course, it will be easier for kids and fitter people once they already have better physical condition, although, it is not a sport just for them.
HOW MUCH DOES A SURF LESSON COST ?
A single surf lesson can varies from $70 to $100 in San Diego. In other locations it can go up to $200. You also have the option of getting packages with multiple lessons, that is recommended when you want to dive in the art of surfing, and in that case, the price per lesson will be cheaper.
In conclusion, although it is possible to learn to surf on your own, lessons are highly recommended. You will have more fun and be able to experience the best of surfing with someone that has the right knowledge.\
Check the options of lessons to figure out what works best for you to pick up on this amazing sport.