The original, best-selling video as seen in TransWorld Surf, Surfer and Surfing. This video provides you with the ultimate surfer's workout. The video features a Dynamic warm-up (6 mins), the workout (22 minutes), the cool-down stretch (10 minutes) and is 45 minutes in total. The workout is easy to follow, motivational and features an outstanding soundtrack. Best of all, this is a surf specific workout that will help take your surfing to the next level.

A

New instructional DVD providing the ultimate in surfing techniques, whether you're a complete beginner or an advanced surfer looking to perform manoeuvres to the highest level.

"Finally an instructional DVD that not only delivers for beginners but for surfers of every level. With detailed blow by blow footage and clear explanation it's hard to think of a surfer who wouldn't benefit" - magicseaweed.com

"Packed with hot footage and useful tips, 110% Surfing is an ideal visual introduction to surfing for beginners of all ages and abilities, and intermediates can learn a lot from the step-by-step manoeuvre breakdowns." -CARVE Magazine

"This is a well-produced and extremely informative DVD. As a self-coaching tool it will be helpful for surfers of just about all ages and abilities. I'd be very surprised if using this DVD didn't accelerate the process of acquiring the most important skills in surfing." - Dr Malcolm Findlay, Founder of BSc Surf Science & Technology, University of Plymouth

"110% is the best instructional DVD in the market place, packed with useful tips and advice, every surfer wanting to learn or improve their surfing skills should get a copy now!" -Chris Rea, Saltwater Training, Harlyn Surf School & Surf Coach Federation.

SURFERS ETIQUETTE
By Rebecca Heller

Girls and get away with a heck of a lot more than the boys out there simply by being so darn cute! But it pays to be neighborly and know the rules of surfing. Check out the following often unspoken rules and etiquette so us surfers, especially beginners, can keep our squeaky clean image in and out of the water.

Don’t drop in. The person furthest out from shore and closest to where the wave is breaking has the right of way. If you are further out on the shoulder and the person on the inside is catching the wave, pull back. As a beginner, pretty much consider anyone up on a wave having priority over you.

Queue up. At point or reef breaks where there is a centralized take-off area there is an unofficial line. Kind of like Disneyland, wait for those who were there before you to go, then it is your turn. Once you have taken a wave, or even attempted a ride, give those closer to the peak a chance. Let a couple waves go by before you try again. Hopefully, they will do the same for you.

Paddle straight out at a beach break, avoiding the peak of the wave and the take off zones. This is easier said then done, since the take-off spot at a beach can shift around. This also means you may have to paddle out through the white water rather than the unbroken sections. If a surfer is coming down the line as you are paddling out try to gauge your speed and paddle behind them. At a point or reef, try to paddle around the break.

Location. Location. Location. Stick to spots that support your ability level (i.e. beginners, don’t paddle out at Pipe). Surfing at spots that are too difficult put you in danger as well as those around you. That being said, more advanced surfers shouldn’t get pissy with those trying to learn at well-known beginner breaks.

Don’t ditch your board. When you are turtling or duck diving hold tightly onto your board. Don’t just let it go haphazardly with the wave as you will knock out surfers behind you. Remember you have a ring of destruction around you equal to the length of your leash! If you can’t hold on – let’s be honest sometimes the wave will rip the board out of your hands – try and yell “Board!”

Beginners are invisible. When more advanced surfers see beginners flailing around looking like they don’t have it all under control yet, they will ignore you. Thankfully they will avoid you, but they will also ignore you. Meaning, they will take off when you are going for a wave assuming that you are unable to catch it. Don’t get upset, you probably weren’t going to catch it anyway. Hopefully, when they see you catch one they will pull back and give a cheerful hoot!

Respect your elders. They have probably been surfing the break you are at since before you were born. Give ‘em some space and their fair share of waves; hopefully they will do the same for you. Don’t be afraid to ask advice, more surfers than not will be flattered and eager to tell you what they know. Plus, they have a lot to teach you; if they give you some advice (kind or unkind) take it.

Support others. Help others, give encouragement, and don’t drop in on them. Beginers are the minority out there so give a little love to the others out there. Give ‘em a smile when they paddle out a hoot when they catch a good wave. Compliment them. There is no greater buzz than someone telling you, “Nice ride.”

Share waves. Once you get good enough to catch most of the waves your try for, share, especially if you are on a longboard as you will be further out than the shortboarders and able to catch more waves. Let others have their turn, especially those who aren’t as good as you. Even if you were snaked all the time when you started, don’t return the favor. Surfing shouldn’t be a hazing process.

Localism sucks. But unfortunately, it does exist. Know something about the surf spot where you are going out. It is best to go with someone who has surfed there before. Sadly there are spots where locals will pester you, throw things, break into your car and go as far as beating up other surfers. This gross behavior should not be condoned, but should be avoided, especially by the beginning surfer.

Surf with Aloha. If you are a beginner, or even a veteran surfer, have the right attitude. It’s all about having fun, communing with nature and goofing around. Leave any grudges or bad attitudes at home and surf with aloha, peace and love.

Pick up after yourself. And finally, the best etiquette is always to leave the beach as you found it. Don’t litter whether you are on the beach or on the street. Join an ocean conservation philanthropy like Surfrider Foundation. We only have one ocean so treat it with respect.

Click here for illustrations.

Rebecca Heller is a freelance journalist and keen surfer.
She publishes some of her work at Surfersvillage.com and WahineSurfing.com from time to time.
Rebecca may be contacted as follows;-
Rebecca Heller
REBECCA.HELLER@newline.com

Copyright - Rebecca Heller/WahineSurfing

Learn to Surf - surfmovies.org

Why Surf? : -
Ask anyone why they surf and you will receive many individual answers. To some it is their entire life, to others it is something to do when they have a week in the sun every year. To many, it is simply because there is nothing else like it. It is one of the few sports that uses only the power of nature, pure and natural. It is great fun, and that is the bottom line.

How to start : -
The best way to start surfing, is to get started. The greatest fun can be had from the smallest of wipe-outs. How to start is different for everyone. Most common probably, is going surfing with friends. It´s not important if they can surf, it is about having fun. Surf schools are an excellent option, they usually provide the equipment required, and you start off by learning good habits, under instruction. Progress is generally rapid. Use our Surf Schools Directory or an internet search engine to find a convenient surf school.

Equipment : -
It is not wise to get all the gear required before you actually find out if you like surfing or not. There is some cost in getting yourself fitted out for full time surfing. Check out the Choose a Board, Choose a Wetsuit, and Choose Accessories sections for more information on these equipment requirements.

Begining to Surf : -
Before learning to surf, you must be able to swim. The importance of this cannot be overemphasized. Surfboards are built to ride waves, or occasionally to catch waves. In neither case are they built to be a lifesaving device. It is your responsibility to ensure that you do not endanger your own life, or the lives of others who may have to come to your rescue, should you be forced to swim.

Before begining to surf you should be able to swim at least 100 metres without stopping. Once you have learned to catch and ride small waves (say up to 1 metre high) then make sure you can swim 500 metres without stopping. If you want to ride 2 metre waves and bigger then be sure you can swim at least 1,000 metres without stopping, and are able to swim at least 25 metres underwater.

Excercise for Surfing : -
You can´t beat swimming as preparation for surfing. Swimming exercises many of the muscles you use to paddle a surfboard, it improves your aerobic fitness, and increases your water confidence. Watch the faces of your non-swimming friends as you paddle past them to catch your second wave, while they are still paddling out to catch their first!

Pre-Surf Warm-up and Stretching :-
Pre-surf warm up and stretching is important. If you wish to surf regularly and be ready for the waves, make sure you do not sustain unnecessary injury. Without going into detail here, ensure that you stretch all the main muscle groups and that you do not enter the water cold.

Some Surfing Do´s And Dont´s : -

Alcohol ; - Save drinking for after surf bragging sessions.
Be Aware ; - of other surfers & water users, the surf conditions, & where you are surfing.
Comfort Zone ; - Surf in waves you are comfortable in, don´t get in over your head.
Fitness ; - Make sure you are physically fit when surfing.
Food ; - Do not go surfing for at least 45 mins after a meal.
Fun ; - Surfing is about fun, keep that in mind when you are in the waves.
Patrolled Beaches ; - When surfing a patrolled beach stay within the designated area.
Priority ; - Always make sure that you are not taking anyone else´s wave.
Practice ; - If you want to improve, be in the water as often as possible.
Respect ; - the locals if you visit a beach. Remember that you are a guest.
Rips ; - If you get caught in a rip, paddle parallel to the beach until you are free
Sun Block ; - Wear a good waterproof sunblock.
Surf Buddy ; - Always surf with at least one other person.
Surf Conditions ; - Make sure the surf is safe. Check it out while warming up.
Throw or Hold ; - Know when to hold onto your surfboard & when to get rid of it.

(When paddling out keep hold of your board, you´ll get out to the line up more quickly, and not put anyone paddling out behind you at risk. If you are about to wipe-out then get rid of your board. An injury is more likely to be sustained if you and your board are getting washed around together). Surfersvillage partners provide more info on Surfing-Waves

Surfmovies.org- Learn to Surf.

Your first surfboard is just that that... a board that will get you into the waves, and easily help you master the basics of paddling, getting into the waves, standing up and getting down the line. A mistake many beginners make is to want the same board the local ripper is using, or their friend that has surfed for some time.

It helps to remember your first board is to learn how to surf a wave rather than look cool. Use it until you feel ready to move on to a board that will give you more performance.

Essential Info About Surfboards:-

The modern surfboard is hand shaped by professional shapers out of foam, and finished with a fibreglass coat. They are light and strong. The leading edge of surfboard design changes quickly. Here are the basic elements you will need to know;

Length : -
The length is the most influential aspect of a board´s design and is a good place to start when considering what dimensions your first surfboard should be. For beginners looking to learn as quickly and as easily as possible, bigger usually means better. A longer board will offer easier paddling and more stability under it´s rider´s feet. Many first time surfboard buyer´s, will find a board that is 18-24 inches taller than it´s rider to be the easiest to learn on. However this may vary, depending on the weight of the surfer too.

Width : -
The width of your first surfboard will determine how stable it feels, and how easy it is to control. A wider board will offer beginning surfers a definite advantage in smaller conditions, and is best for learning on. For this reason the width of a first board should be at least 19 inches or greater.

Thickness : -
The thickness of a surfboard directly affects how well it floats. More floatation means a smoother ride once standing and less fatigue from paddling. For most surfers a thickness of 2.5 inches is sufficient in a first board. However, since the proper thickness is mostly determined by the surfer´s weight heavier surfers may benefit from a thicker board.

Template : -
The term template refers to a board´s overall outline. A board with a template that is wide throughout the nose, center, and tail of the board is best for the beginner. This will offer the rider a more forgiving feel and better overall balance. A fuller template will also make paddling much less difficult.

Choosing the Surfboard you want:-

Shortboard
MiniMalibu
Longboard
Fish
Gun

Surfboards for Beginners
Softboard
Pop-Out

Here is a look at what the essential parts of a surfboard are called.

The Shortboard:-

There are basically four types of surfboard design, plus beginners boards. The first is the Shortboard, also known as the Thruster. This is the type of board that is pictured above. It is a board used to perform quick manoeuvres and is the most popular type of surfboard design. The size of these Shortboards is generally from around 5´8´´ to 6´10´´.

The Longboard or Malibu:-

The main difference in design from a shortboard is that the nose of the Longboard is rounded. Other than that there is no real difference, Shortboards tend to have 3 fins and Longboards tend to have a single fin. (Surfboards can have as many fins as they like, it is not a standard thing). Mini Malibus range from the 7´2´´-9´0´´ and Malibus are 9´0´´ and upwards in length.

The Fish:-

The Fish is very similar to a Shortboard but is smaller in length. The lack of length is made up by an increase in the width of the board, giving it a slightly more rounded shape. Fish are generally between 4´8´´ and 6´0´´.

The Gun:-

The Gun is a bigger version of the Shortboard and is used in the big wave arena. The increased length of the board makes it possible to paddle into bigger waves. The Gun can be anywhere from 7´2´´ in length to over 12´ for the really big waves.

Surfboards For The Beginner:-

The Softboard:-

The best surfboard for a beginner is a Malibu. The bigger, thicker Mals are easier to catch waves with and are more stable to stand up on The ideal board should be at least 9´ long and be made of foam. Foamies as they are called are the ideal board to start on because the soft foam construction means the boards are incredibly buoyant, enabling the beginner to catch waves easily. Their dimensions ensure that they are very stable in the water - making it easier for the novice to stand up.

The Pop-Out:-

A Pop-Out is a surfboard that is made on a production line and is a cheap alternative to a custom made fibreglass surfboard. The Pop-Out is made of foam covered with thick fibreglass and is practically indestructible! As a result of their construction the pop-out is heavier than a softboard or a custom board of equal size, which is good from a learners point of view, because the board is much steadier in the water. The Pop-Out is a good beginners choice because of their cost and the fact that they float really well.

The Pop-Out is a popular choice as a beginners board. They offer more for the average surfer than the soft surfboards, because they have a longer time span where they are still of use as a board to learn to surf on. Another great thing about the Pop-Out is that they are in demand and always have a good resale value. When you have learned to surf on them and are looking to buy a board more suitable to your surfing ability - try finding a second hand one.

Surfboards for Beginners Summary:-

Surfboard Size : -
> No matter what type of board you buy it should be at least 6´´ longer than your own height.
> The wider the board, the more stable on the waves
> The thicker the board the more buoyant it will be, making it easier to paddle and catch waves
> An ultra thin, light shortboard will make learning to surf harder

Type : -
> The best type of beginners surfboard depends on different factors.
> How often you will be surfing, your fitness levels, whether you need to look cool etc.
> Soft boards, longboards, minimals and pop-outs are all great beginners boards
> Shortboards are not such a great beginner board for the average surfer.

New or Old : -
> This depends on a number of factors including budget and availability of boards
> Buying a new soft surfboard is a good idea if you have children or you do not intend to go surfing regularly.
> If you progress quickly in your surfing you will soon need another board more suited to your ability.
> Soft surfboards are for the novice only.
> Good second hand surfboards can be hard to find, take a look at the surfboard buying guide
> With a beginners board you will have to replace it soon, you need a board that you can resell

How Often You Surf : -
> If you surf intermittently go for either a pop-out, mini-mal or malibu
> If you surf 3-4 times a week you can pretty much start on any board you like.
> Surfing this regularly should see you quickly out of the ´novice surfer´ stage

Ding Repair:-

Sooner or later you are going to ding your prized possesion. If you don´t know what you are doing and want to keep the trade in value of your board high and the board looking and working correctly... BRING IT IN TO GET IT FIXED! If you insist on repairing dings yourself, various websites cover this in detail, and ready-to-go repair-kits are available for purchase.

Surfersvillage partners provide more info on Surfing-Waves

Surfmovies.org - Learn to Surf.

Wetsuits come as shorties, full suits, and some have detachable arms and legs. Neoprene comes in different thickness´, from 2 to 6 mm. The thicker the neoprene the warmer the suit. The average Wetsuit will have a zip to make it possible to get in and out of it.

Zips are situated in different places on suits, traditionally down the back. But it can be found across the shoulders or high up on the chest. Latest Wetsuits are made out of neoprene so stretchy that you can get in through the neck.

How it works : -
A Wetsuit works by trapping a thin layer of water between the Wetsuit and the skin. The body temperature of the surfer heats this water giving a warm water blanket. This is why a Wetsuit that fits well is a must. The Wetsuit should be a tight fit (not so tight that you can´t move freely) and there should be no baggy areas where the suit comes away from your body. If it is for cold water, make sure that there is also a tight fitting neck.

Buying a Wetsuit : -
There are two things to keep in mind
First, what size do you need to buy, Second, what type of wetsuit do you need to buy.
If you surf in cold water, a good wetsuit is required, and you should be prepared to pay for it.

Wetsuit size : -
Check out the size charts of the various manufactures to find the suit you need. Below is an example size chart for Quiksilver mens wetsuits.

Which Wetsuit To Buy : -
Good wetsuits are not cheap, on cold days they are worth the investment. Which type of wetsuit you need depends on the water temperature that you surf in. If you are only going to be surfing during the summer months then a spring suit will be fine. If you surf down the bottom of the South Island of New Zealand in the depths of winter you are going to need a 5/3. (5/3 refers to the thickness of the neoprene in millimeters). If the water is going to be very cold you will also need booties, gloves and a wetsuit hood - and for those extra cold days an extra rash vest to help keep the heat in.

´Shortie´ Wetsuit : -
A shortie is for water temperatures above 70F and is made of 2mm neoprene. If boardshorts are a little bit cold then a shortie is just right.

Three Quarter Length / Springsuit : -
Used when the water temperature is between 65-75F and made of 3/2mm neoprene. Great for windy days when it would be too cold in a shortie. The three quarter length refers to the wetsuit having short arms or legs.

Full Suit : -
A full suit is needed for water temperatures below 65F. Depending on how cold the water will be you will either need a 4/3mm or a 5/3mm wetsuit. A 5/3mm suit will be needed if the temperatures get below 60F.

When It Gets Too Cold : -
A titanium rashvest can help with the cold, as will booties, gloves, wetsuit socks and a wetsuit hood. The temperatures quoted are only guidelines as some people feel the cold more than others. If you like comfort go for a thicker suit - but keep in mind that thicker the suit the less flexible it is.

If you surf in extremely cold conditions then you will need a semi-dry suit, and that is a whole other type of suit. Surfersvillage partners provide more info on Surfing-Waves

Wax
Deckgrip
Leash/legrope
Board bag
Nose Cone
Helmet
Rashguard

Surf Wax Maintenance : -
Instead of applying wax each time you go out you can revitalise the old wax with a quick comb with a Surf Wax Comb - available at any surf shop. After a session all the wax you applied at the beginning of the session has been smoothed out and the board has become slippery again. A quick comb will see that wax become much more effective again. This only works up to a point after which more wax will need to be applied.

Leash/Legrope : -
The leash, or leg rope as it is also known, is used to attach your board to your leg, so after falling off you do not have to swim back to the beach to retrieve your board. An invaluable piece of surfing equipment. The leash is attached to a plug near the tail of the surfboard at one end, and around the bottom of your back leg just above the ankle by a velcro strap.

Legrope´s all do the same thing but some are a little bit more fancy than others. They have ends that swivel ensuring the leash does not get twisted up. Others come with a little pocket to keep your car key in while you are out surfing. They come in different lengths, longer ones for bigger boards and waves.

Surfmovies.org - Learn to Surf.

Finding the right person makes every difference in how far you eventually progress. A surfer is on his own in the water, sure, however surfing is simply safer and more fun with friends, especially if they are close to your own skill level. There are the added bonuses of sharing expenses and sharing the responsibility for each other´s safety in the water.

Two schools of thought on who you surf with are : -
A) Find someone good to teach you to surf.
B) Find someone else who wants to learn and teach each other.

Where to Surf : -
Go to your nearest surf shop and ask people where a good break to learn is. Be honest about your abilities, surfers are a pretty friendly lot.

Generally speaking you should stick to beachbreaks that break over sand. Some beachbreaks are dangerous, so caution needs to be exercised. Use common sense. Seas are dynamic, often rapidly changing places - what may be perfect for beginner surfers now, may not be so in six months, next week, or even an hour from now. Take advice of any lifeguards or experienced surfers around.

What sort of beach break to look for? Places where the waves roll towards shore, rather than rearing up and breaking violently. Plunging waves can be dangerous, even over sand bottoms. When you are expert plunging waves are the ones you will seek out, but in the early stages, avoid them.

Waves need not be particularly good. You´re learning the basics of catching waves and being balanced on your board, and to learn those basics any wave will do. Staying with waves the experts ignore will pay off big time in the first stages of your surfing career - you´ll get all the waves you want and will therefore advance much more rapidly.

How to stand up : -

Pop up : -
A pop-up takes you from lying prone on your surfboard to standing position. To practice this draw a surfboard in the sand, tape one out on the floor, or put your surfboard across your bed. First you need to figure out if you´re goofy or regular foot.

Stand with both feet together at attention and get someone to gently push you forward. Usually the foot you step forward with will be your power (back) foot on the surfboard. Right foot back is regular, and left back is goofy foot.

Stance : -
A good stance is spreading your feet as wide as is comfortable. Both feet centered on the stringer and at 90 degrees to the stringer. Do not stand straight up on your surfboard, your center of gravity will be so high you are sure to fall over fast. Create the lowest center of gravity possible by bending your knees.

Your hands should stretch forward and backward along the line of the stringer to help stabilize you further. In order to stay centered on the board your feet and shoulders should stay centered over the surfboard´s stringer.

Now lay flat on your surfboard, or surfboard model.
Place your hands beside your chest like your going to do a pushup.
Take your power foot and roll it over on your inside ankle.
Let the hip above your power foot roll up off the board.
Keeping your power foot back,
Push your chest off the board and start bringing your front foot up beneath you.

This should take you in one continuous motion from a prone position to two feet on the board . If you go to your knees in the middle of the pop-up, you will not be able to make the bottom turn and your surfing will not progress. As you become more practiced, your motion will become smoother and more fluid. You will learn how to end your popup stably planted on your board without putting your hands on the board to balance.

How to catch waves: -

Getting in the Water: -
Sit and watch the surf for a while. Watch what people are doing. Where is everybody sitting, where do they paddle out. Where do the waves break? As waves get bigger they break further out, so if everyone is sitting farther out than where the waves are currently breaking, it means that there are bigger sets coming. Watch for them.

Stretch:
While you´re watching the break, stretch your arms and back. Limber up.

You´ve noted where other people head out. Wax your board and head down to that spot. Put your leash on your back leg. Walk your board out until the water is about waist deep and hop on. Position yourself on the board so that the nose is just barely (2-3") out of the water. Too little and you´ll be going under, too much and you´ll wear yourself out pushing water.

Paddling / Paddle-out: -
Paddling efficiently is an essential part of surfing. If you can´t paddle well, you can´t get out to the surf and you can´t catch a wave. Go for even, alternating strokes.

When you have to get through the whitewater get up some speed and then either:
Plow right through it.
Raise your chest up with your arms so that the water passes between you and the board.
Turtle: Just as the wave is about to hit you, roll over on your back (roll the board too), and pull the nose of the board down. Then roll back up.
Duck-dive: Raise up on one knee, push the nose of the board under the wave and follow with your body. (This takes lots of practice)
Bail: Get off your board, and dive for the bottom. This is for emergencies only. You lose a great deal of distance this way, and you endanger people around you.

You need to find your sweet spot, which means you have to find the position of balance on your board where you are neither too far forward or back. If you are too far forward your board will pearl end over end every time. If you are too far back, the submerged tail of your board creates drag and you lose efficiency. Lay prone on your surfboard in the water and extend your arms out to either side. Adjust your body forward or back to make the board float very close to level.

Keep your feet together and begin an overhand crawl. Create a slow deliberate rhythm and work your breathing pattern into to the paddling rhythm. Fully extend your arms and dig deep. Shallow, short strokes will get you nowhere. The smoother your paddling technique the less energy you will expend for any distance traveled.

Duck Diving: -
Duckdiving is to get you through a wave that you can´t paddle around or over, while losing as little gained distance as possible to the shoreward motion of the wave.

Carry maximum momentum paddling toward and up to the wave. Lay prone on your board and as the trough of the wave approaches lift your chest high off the board. Drive the nose of your board as deep into the water as possible with as much force as you can. As the wave passes over you, transfer your weight from the nose of the board to the back using your foot and pulling up on the nose. Depending on your positioning and momentum, it may take little to make you rise up through the backside of the wave and continue paddling down into the trough beyond.

Sitting On Your Board: -
Lie on your surfboard in the paddling position. When you are comfortably balanced, take hold of the board with each hand on the rail as if you were getting ready to do a push up. Draw the board from underneath you, pulling it forward through your legs. As the board is sliding underneath you bring your knees up and arch your back into a sitting position. As with everything else in surfing, it is a question of practising balance.

To smoothly sit up on your surfboard as the waves roll past takes practice. Use your legs out on either side of the surfboard to aid your balance and hold yourself upright. Lean too far to the left or right and you will fall off your board. Lean too far forward and the surfboard will disappear out behind your. Lean too far back and we encounter the torpedo effect again. It is not too hard to master this, but it takes practice to become competent at getting into the sitting position.

Catching a Wave, Beginner on shoreline reformed waves: -
Choose a wave, turn your board toward the shore and paddle as hard as you can toward the shore. As the wave hits your feet take 2 or 3 more strong strokes and as the whitewater gets to your chest you will feel the wave take over pushing you. This is your big chance. Popup and remember your stance. If you stand straight up, you will fall straight over, like it is a law.

The line-up: -
The lineup is where you wait to catch waves, just a little outside of where they break. Most surfers sit on their boards and face offshore to watch for incoming waves. Because different size waves will break closer to shore and further out, your point of take off will vary on any given wave. When a set comes in, your position in the lineup will dictate wether you can go for a wave. If the surfers close by you have been waiting longer than you or not, will dictate if you should go for a wave or not.

Catching a Wave, Novice: -
Once in the lineup beyond the impact zone keep an eye toward the incoming waves. You may be outside where the waves normally break, but cleanup sets can surprise you and leave you inside and next in line for a pounding, not to mention having to paddle back out without a ride.

Choose a wave that looks like it will be steep enough to ride and you think will break close to you. On beach breaks the takeoff point will vary back and forth and takes a bit of luck to start with. Paddle hard and fast to match the speed of the incoming wave as closely as you are able.

As the trough of the wave seems to fall out from in front of you the wave will start to grab you. This is the moment of truth. If you can make it onto the face of the wave, take another stroke or two, pop up and ride down the face. If the wave is going to break out from under you, back stroke with both hands to pull yourself onto the back of the wave and turn and paddle back out, keeping a close eye on the next incoming wave. It may have your name on it.

Types of Surf Break: -

The challenge of surfing is that every wave is different. The three main types of wave are;-

Beach Break: -
A Beach Break is where the waves break on a sandy seabed. This type of wave is the best to start surfing on. A good example of a classic beach break is Hossegor in Southern France which can hold perfect barrels up to 20´.

Point Break: -
A Point Break is a wave that breaks onto a rocky point. An example of a Pointbreak is Bells Beach in Australia

Reef Break: -
A Reef Break is a wave that breaks over a coral reef or a rock seabed. These waves are usually the classic ones you see in surfing videos. These waves can be unforgiving if you happen to wipe out badly, but can be the most rewarding in their perfection. Cloudbreak is a superb example of a Reef Break.

NB. A Rivermouth wave can break over rocky ledges or sandy bottoms. A fine example is the all time classic Margaret River.

Lefts, Rights & Peaks: -
A wave is either a Left or a Right depending on the direction the wave breaks from the point of view of a surfer paddling and riding the wave. Paddling to catch a wave, if it is breaking from right to left (the surfer will have to turn left to get on the wave) then this wave is a left. From the beach the wave will be seen to breaking to the right. A right is the opposite to a left.

A peak is a wave that breaks forming a rideable wave both left and right, two surfers can surf it at the same time in different directions.

Wind; Onshore, Offshore & Cross Shore : -

An Onshore Wind is the worst wind for surfing. It blows from out to sea and ensures all the waves crumble and have no shape, making the waves un-surfable.

A Cross Shore is not desirable either, not giving shape to the waves.

An Offshore Wind is the best wind for surfing. It ensures that the waves rolling in are well formed and break cleanly. Quality waves come with an offshore wind.

The Rules: -

Don´t Drop In: -
The surfer who is closest to the breaking part of the wave has priority. If a surfer is up and riding then this is also their wave. If two surfers are going for the same wave and it is not clear who has the inside, then it is down to who is on their feet first.

Don´t Snake: -
In the lineup, if you paddle around someone who is in position and get deeper in position than they are to take their wave you have snaked the other surfer.

Paddling Out: -
When paddling out, if you must get over a wave that someone is riding, paddle behind them (the white water side). This generally means getting stuffed for the sake of someone else´s ride. Take comfort in the hope that they would do the same for you. Do not paddle in front of someone unless you are so sure that you will be at least 20 feet in front of them.

Respect the Locals: -
Respect the regulars at all breaks. They wait long periods for good swell and then face crowds when the swells arrive.
Surfersvillage partners provide more info on Surfing-Waves

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Dropping in:-

When paddling, look behind to see how the wave is going to break. As soon as you feel the wave carrying the board fast enough so that you don´t have to paddle, stand up right away with your legs bent, with your body slighty forward. Keep your body compact and look toward the bottom of the wave and decide which way you want to turn.

Front Side Bottom Turn:-

During the takeoff you must decide where you want to turn once you have got to your feet. If the wave is slow and sluggish, turn right at the bottom of the wave to gain as much speed as possible. If it is fast and powerful, you won´t need to turn right at the bottom, but instead a little earlier.

Bottom Turn Backside:-

To initiate your turn, pivot your shoulders in the direction you want to turn (towards the wave) while pressing on your back foot with a little more weight favoring the rail of the direction of your turn. A good bottom turn is all about timing.

Floater:-

If the wave looks like its is going to closeout in front of you it´s a good time for a floater. This involves you going over the lip and onto the top of the wave and hopefully catching up with a re-opening section of the wave, or other wise getting jacked by whitewater. The KEY to a successful floater is speed. If you aren´t going fast enough, you won´t make it over the wash.

Cutback:-

As you finish your bottom turn, the breaking wave flattens out and the wave´s face is not slopped enough to go for a re-entry. A good option here is a cutback. A cutback is a wide turn on the flatter part of the wave, which will take you back to the breaking section of the wave. With lots of speed from the bottom turn, ride as high on the breaking wave as possible, then pivot your upper body throwing your shoulders and arms back towards the inside of the wave while adding progressive pressure to your back foot, driving the board on the inside rail.

Snap or Snap Back:-

Sometimes you need to slow down when in the middle of a breaking wave to avoid getting too far in front of it. The snap back is like a cutback but faster. First, you have to put pressure on your back foot, followed by the pivoting of your shoulders in the direction you want to snap back. The board will turn by itself as you turn your body. This turn is made more with the flat of the board than with it´s rail. If you go too far, the tail will slide.

Duck Diving:-

The duck-dive allows you to pass underneath waves while paddling out. Avoiding the wave pushing you back to shore. The first few times you try these it will be difficult. Once you get the move down it comes in handy and is an essential part of surfing. Paddle toward the wave you want to duck dive. About seven feet from the approaching wave hold your board by its rails and push down on it with your arms as you would when taking off on a wave. This will sink the board as deep as possible into the water. As you do this bring one knee up under you, the board will remain under water. Once the wave has passed, you can transfer all your weight and pull up your arms. This will move the board to the surface.

Backside Re-Entry:-

As you finish your bottom turn look toward the waves peak which will break in front of you. When you are under the peak, push on your back foot and direct your shoulders toward the slope of the wave. Your board will naturally follow the directions you point your shoulders and you will ride up the face of the wave. As you move toward the top of the face, release the pressure on your back foot and move your forward, directing the board back down the wave.

Frontside Re-Entry (Start):-

For this one, do close to the same thing as the backside. Put weight on your back foot, direct your shoulders toward the face of the wave. The big difference between this move and the backside is that the impact of the wave will be hard on your balance. Just make sure you come down balanced and in control.

Frontside Re-Entry (Finish):-

Once you get to the top of the wave, shift your weight to the front of the board and aim your shoulders down the face of the wave. Remember, the key is to be balanced and in control.

Re-published with the permission of BicSport.com.

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Surfing Studies Diploma Awarded : -
Southern Cross University in Australia offer surfing studies at its Tweed Gold Coast campus. The Diploma in Sport Management or Surfing Studies is aimed at those who work in, or wish to work in, the surfing sport or industry.

It is endorsed by the peak sporting body, Surfing Australia, and supported by major industry players. 40 places were available for the 2003/04 curriculum year. The industry consulting group for the program includes principals from Billabong, BASE Surfboards, Quiksilver, Brothers Neilsen, Ripcurl, SurfCult.

The program is linked in some of its elective practical components to the Surfing Australia High Performance Training Camp at Casuarina Beach, south of the Gold Coast. WQS and Pro Junior circuit surfers will be specifically catered for in the Course with respect to their competition needs.

SCU offers year full-time, or two year part-time, courses covering subjects such as marketing, events management, sport media, business and sport management. Applicants do not have to know how to surf, but the university says it would help. Two million Australians surf.

Surfing itself is not on the curriculum. "This is not a degree in surfboard riding, but rather a vocationally-focussed professional development programme," says SCU vice-chancellor John Rickard. As a fully fledged course at a reputable university, the diploma will cost aspirants A$9600 (US$6816). For more information contact Surfing Australia

More information at Southern Cross University

Surf Science and Technology Degree : -
The University of Plymouth offers a four-year degree -- Surf Science and Technology. This was a pioneer program and is now viewed as an innovation that may soon become a model for other unconventional degrees.

This course provides an opportunity for those with an interest in surfing to pursue rigorous academic study of the scientific, technical and business aspects of the international surfing industries. Each year of the course is complemented with opportunities for practical surfing.

Oceanography, business management, anatomy, environmental studies, meteorology and " materials technology and design construction, " a lab course devoted mostly to building surfboards are some of the courses covered

Graduates from the Surf Science and Technology course are well prepared for management careers in the surfing industry. The degree also provides a route into other careers for which any science degree may be appropriate.

Since finishing their course, some graduates have found work within the multi-million pound surfing industry. Surf science graduate Jim Edmundson for example, is a now a marketing executive with Gul International, a world leader in wetsuit manufacturing.

For more information contact University of Plymouth

Surf Science and Technology Degree : -
Edith Cowan University, This three-year full-time or equivalent part-time Bachelor of Science degree (Surf Science and Technology) offered by the South West Campus (Bunbury) provides an opportunity for well-qualified individuals with an interest in surfing to pursue the scientific and technological aspects of the surfing industry.

Students acquire the skills necessary for management in this diverse, expanding and exciting industry. Areas covered include ocean sciences, materials technology, event management, human biology, business studies as well as contemporary issues in surfing.

Market research shows that graduates will have access to a wide range of careers in the surf industry. These include design and manufacture of equipment and clothing, management of surf-related enterprises, marketing, media work and international trade and logistics.

This science degree also prepares students for careers for which a Bachelor of Science degree is an asset or required.

The array of skills that are developed during the course will also allow students to enter the ‘general graduate pool’ and find employment in other fields such as environmental management, coastal zone management, teaching, manufacturing, sales, and marketing.

For more information contact Edith Cowan University

Master Sports de Glisse : -
Formation : MASTER Sports de glisse, 1 an, délivré par l’Université Victor Ségalen Bordeaux 2, en partenariat avec l’ESTIA.

Parrainée par Joël de Rosnay, Docteur es sciences, Directeur de la Prospective de la Cité des Sciences et de l´Industrie de la Villette et surfeur émérite, cette formation innovante, unique en Europe, vise à former des professionnels capable de concevoir, de conduire, de gérer et de valoriser des projets et/ou des produits dans le domaine des sports de glisse.

Ce terme désigne l´ensemble des pratiques utilisant comme support l´air, l´eau, la neige, la terre...

More inormation at www.estia.fr

North Island College : -
North Island College on Vancouver Island, in British Columbia, Canada is working with Southern Cross University in New South Wales, Australia to provide North America's first surfing studies diploma to teach the business behind surfing. The diploma will help qualify students to teach lessons, manage surf shops, & take positions in surfing-oriented companies in Canada & abroad. The two-year diploma of sports management in surfing studies will be centered in Port Alberni and Tofino.

The curriculum is academically challenging, not an excuse to hang out at the beach. Classes cover everything from surfboard design to event planning, along with traditional business courses. Surfing experience is not necessary. Students receive in-water training, as well as internships with surfing research, retail, and manufacturing companies throughout Canada. The inaugural 20-student class will be donning wetsuits and surfing as of September 2009.

More information available here

Surf Science and Technology Degree : -
Currently, an un-named U.S.A. university hopes to foster links with Plymouth University, which launched a similar course in board science in 1999. It will help graduates find work on the business side of the surfing industry, or in environmental management. It is a rigorous degree... not a play course, and partcularly well suited to people who perhaps only work well when they have something that interests them, and who may tackle a university degree when they otherwise might not do so.

Further details on this facility will be posted when available.

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