FAQ
INTRODUCTION
Anyone that is learning how to surf should have the proper equipment. When an individual takes a class with Try Surf the proper equipment will be provided free with the lesson (buying your own fitted wetsuit is recommended). These next six tips are very important in our surf class.
FITTING A WETSUIT
When fitting a wetsuit, make sure that you feel comfortable, just like a pair of pants. You want flexibility for optimum comfort and performance. Wetsuits that are all black in color are the most popular because they absorb the suns heat rays, keeping you warmer. Additional rash guard (1mm material worn under wetsuit) also provides warmth (sunscreen application is very important).
WHAT BOARD SHOULD I BEGIN WITH?
The board to begin with is a surfboard that floats your butt out of the water, and one that is at least 3 feet taller than you. When you learn proper technique and it is easy to surf this board, then we can help decide what board will best suit you. Try Surf offers used surfboards at affordable prices. Contact us with your questions about your board needs.
PICKING A GOOD LEASH
Picking a good solid leash is important as well. There are many different leashes to choose from. The general rule is to find a leash that is the same size as the surfboard. They must be easy to get on and off. You should learn to take it off and put it on without looking.
SHORELINE SAFETY
When on the shoreline, always keep your eyes on the ocean as surfboards may come at you. The shoreline at the water is uneven. Be aware of the surface below you.
SURFING PREPAREDNESS
Being a stronger swimmer will best prepare you for surfing. Push ups and proper breathing techniques will also help in the process.
Our soft-top surfboards don't require wax on the top (deck) for traction. All fiberglass boards do require wax on the deck for traction.
We provide body boards to the kids who would rather take their time with surfing, per request. Students can still learn about surfing and proper paddling techniques, on a body board. Our goal is to slowly encourage them to give surfing a chance in a positive manner.
WHAT'S THE BEST EXERCISE TO DO TO PREPARE ME FOR SURFING?
If you haven't had surf class before, chances are you have never used the specific muscle groups that surfing requires. The first time that you surf, you will probably get tired quickly. You will also be very sore from using the different muscles. Its o.k. your body will adjust in a day or two and you will be feeling better than ever and ready to surf again. Surfing will give you great muscle endurance, fantastic tone, and acute mind body coordination. Here are three things that you can do to prepare yourself before going surfing.
1) The heart is the most important muscle in the body. Aerobic exercise is good for the heart, and surfing. Walking, short sprints, pushing a skateboard, bicycle riding and swimming are good for surfing conditioning.
2) Squats are a good way to increase leg strength for surfing, as well as push-ups to strengthen the upper body.
3) A balanced diet, and lots of water, is optimum for getting the most out of life and surfing.
WHERE DO WE START?
The best place to start is in the white water, and waves that are close to the shore. Even if it's completely flat we can teach you proper paddling techniques. Before you select a specific location you must know that there are three different types of surfing breaks that surfers have to choose from: beach breaks, reef breaks and point breaks.
IS IT SAFE TO SURF?
Yes. Hundreds of thousands of people go surfing around the world each day, safely. Occasionally accidents do happen. You increase your chances of safe surfing when you educate yourself in ocean awareness. At Try Surf class our first priority is teaching ocean awareness and safety. Participants learn about hazards and ways to avoid them. We also offer dozens of valuable safety tips and techniques to avoid injury.
WHAT WILL I NEED TO BRING TO MY SESSION
Board and leash are included in Try Surf classes and camps. Wetsuits can be provided. We suggest buying the right size suit for yourself. Try Surf offers wetsuits at affordable prices (discontinued, over-stock, last years designs) or we can recommend a board shop nearest you. It is a good idea to bring your own sunscreen, towel, bottle of water, and a light snack for after surfing. Other helpful items are a hat and sunglasses.
CAN ANYONE SURF?
For the most part, Yes. With proper instructions and the learning of safe methods and techniques anyone can learn. Surfing is more than riding a wave. From there you will progress onward to become a surfer.
*Special needs or health issues should be brought to the attention of the instructor before beginning surfing.
WHY TAKE A LESSON?
Taking surf classes and learning proper techniques before entering the water as well as ocean safety and surfing etiquette can literally save months and sometimes years in the learning process. It will also help you to develop good habits that will stay with you as long as you surf.
WHAT DO THE KIDS DO IF THERE IS NO SURF ON A PARTICULAR DAY?
We have a variety of water games and beach games for the kids to participate in. The kids can also go snorkeling in small groups with an instructor. It is very rare for there to be no surf at all. Again if so, paddling out in the ocean is actually very relaxing and builds confidence.
WHAT DO THE KIDS DO IF THE SURF IS TOO BIG?
We never put the kids at risk. On bigger days, if the conditions permit, the kids surf the whitewater waves close to the shore. If the staff feels that the conditions are unsafe, we will work on their surfing skills on the sand, drills to strengthen muscles as well as educate them on certain situations.
HOW DO WE KNOW IF WE ARE READY TO LEARN HOW TO SURF?
If yourself, son/daughter has intermediate to advanced swimming skills and has experience swimming in the ocean, then he or she is ready. Beginners always start on whitewater (which is the foamy whitewash after a wave breaks) and can touch the ground with their feet. We never push anyone to surf if they are not ready.
HOW MUCH TIME DURING THE DAY WILL MY CHILD BE SURFING?
Your child will be in a group with other participants and one instructor. Throughout the day the group will vote on what activity they would like to do next. If they choose to surf for the entire time, that is just fine. Provided we've gone through all steps.
WHAT GROUP WILL WE BE WITH?
Ultimately, kids are placed in a group in which all are generally at the same level. It usually turns out that our classes our a combination of people. For the most part it is a variety of nice people so no worries.
