Surfing is an exciting way to connect with the ocean and enjoy the thrill of the waves. Portugal, known for its stunning coastline and perfect surf conditions, is a top destination for surfers of all levels. One of the best places to learn and improve is surf camp Porto, where you can take your surfing from beginner to intermediate with expert guidance and local knowledge. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to level up your skills, surf camp Porto offers the ideal environment to boost your confidence and ride the waves like a pro. Here are 8 expert tips to help you make that jump and get better at surfing.
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Use the Right Board
Choosing the right surfboard is crucial in your surfing journey. For beginners, it can be challenging to find the right balance, paddle effectively, and learn the pop-up. A larger, wider board is the best choice at first, as it provides better stability and floats well, making it easier to catch waves. Many beginners start with a bigger board that has more volume. As skills improve, it’s possible to switch to a shorter, narrower board that suits your growing abilities.
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Fix Your Take-Off Mistakes
When learning to stand up on the board, it’s easy to develop bad habits without realizing it. Common mistakes include bending the knees too much, looking down, not leaving enough space under the body, and using the hands incorrectly. If you’re struggling with your take-off, there are plenty of online resources available that can guide you through the proper techniques and help you correct these mistakes.
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Learn Paddling and Pop-ups
Paddling efficiently and understanding your pop-up are crucial steps in moving from the white water to the green waves. White water is predictable and helps beginners learn the basics because the wave provides a push, making pop-ups easier. Once you can catch about 8 out of 10 white water waves with successful pop-ups, it’s time to challenge yourself in the lineup. In the green waves, gravity is the only force at work, so a strong paddle technique is essential to catch the wave and ride it down the face. For a more focused and supportive learning experience, joining a surf camp North Portugal can help you improve these skills in the perfect surf conditions.
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Adopt Proper Surf Positioning
To improve stability and control, intermediate surfers maintain a low center of gravity and distribute their weight evenly on the board. Practicing a compact position helps generate speed and makes turning easier. Being in the right position also ensures better balance and control. As you progress, focus on maintaining a relaxed posture while staying alert to your surroundings. This will help you manage different wave conditions effectively, giving you more confidence as you ride.
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Learn to Angle the Take-Off
Angling your take-off by paddling at a diagonal angle, either to the left or right, offers several advantages when surfing. It allows you to smoothly draw a line along the wave’s shoulder, build momentum in the desired direction, and give you more time to stand up on the board. This technique is especially helpful in fast-moving waves, where you don’t have the luxury of paddling straight before popping up. Learning this skill improves your wave control and overall performance.
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Improve Foot Movement on the Board
Foot movement on the board plays a key role in controlling speed and maneuverability. Moving your feet forward helps you pick up speed while shifting them backward, which aids in making sharper, more efficient turns. If you position your feet too far forward on a longboard, the board’s nose may dig into the water, making turns difficult. Sliding your feet up and down the board lets you adjust your stance for better acceleration or turning, depending on the wave and surf conditions.
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Get Familiar with the Rules and Surf Etiquette
Knowing when and where to surf is essential, but understanding the rules and etiquette is just as important. Surfers are expected to respect the lineup and follow the local surfing customs of each spot. General rules, like the priority rule, apply everywhere, but each surf spot may have its own specific guidelines. Before hitting the waves, make sure to learn the local surf etiquette to ensure a safe and respectful experience for everyone in the water.
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Seek Waves That Match Your Skill Level
Just like advanced surfers look for tough waves, beginners and intermediates should look for waves that are easier to ride. When planning your surf trips, choose gentle waves with enough time to paddle and clear peaks on both sides. These waves will help you practice and improve your skills. Surfing in the right conditions makes it easier to learn and progress faster.
Wrapping it Up
Now, you have a better understanding of how to become an intermediate surfer. So, what’s next? To make the most of these tips, it’s highly recommended to practice with the guidance of a surf school. A surf instructor can teach you the right techniques on the board, explain the water rules, help you read the ocean, and show you how to progress safely and enjoyably. Joining a surf camp Portugal is a great way to receive expert instruction while experiencing the best waves. With the right support, you’ll improve your skills in no time.
