Surfing 101

Exploring different secret surfing spots and being carried by consistent waves are just two of the joys of the adventure of surfing.

Any surfer, beginner or expert, will tell you: riding a wave is one of life’s finest pleasures.

First though, your mind has to remove a roadblock—the fear that you wont able to do this. In fact, the first piece of advise you’ll possibly get as you attempt to mount your board is to not be scared of the ocean. Because while there are few shortcuts and there’s a steep learning curve, there’s no thrill like the water-lubed, pure speed sensation that only riding on water can provide.

Getting Started

"When it comes to learning the basics of surfing," says Freddy Gonzales "good wave conditions, good equipment and good instruction are essential."

Gonzales should know—being the President of Aloha Boardsports Inc., the local distributor for premier boardsports brands like Volcom, Lost and Dakine. As a leading surf advocate, he’s part of a local movement called Onboard Philippines, which made its first stop in Lanuza, Surigao del Sur. Onboard Philippines not only hopes to make surfing accessible to everyone but to the Philippines on the map as part of international surf lore as well.

"Surfing may be a freewheeling dance between wave and rider, but you also have to learn how to stand up; you have to learn to sit patiently to catch the best waves; you also have to learn how to paddle through the waves. There’s a lot to learn, but it’s really easy if you take it step by step," he explains.

The Basics

Because surfing requires you to spend hours in the water it is important to be comfortable. And if you’re tugging on your suit all the time, it might distract you from what you have to do. Invest in a good pair of board shorts and rash guards. These will be helpful in preventing rashes on your body as you will rub against your boards frequently.

When it comes to the gear, it’s best to start with a beginner’s surfboard. Your first board should be wide, thick, round, floaty and soft. The goal is to choose one with as much surface area as possible so you can practice your balancing skills better. Make sure you get a leash that is the same length as your surfboard and secure it around your ankle so you wont lose your board all the time.

Try to choose a location where waves are uncrowded, the bottom of the beach, sandy and where the waves are gentle. Wait for waves that swell up and crumble gently to make it easier for you to stand and glide across. While surfing solo is not recommended and knowing how to swim is not a pre-requisite to experience a taste of wave riding, experienced surfers are, by necessity, strong swimmers and always remind beginners of their limits.

Finally, remember to practice wave-etiquette—the wave belongs to the first surfer who catches it and dropping in on someone who’s already riding it is both dangerous and taboo

Heeding the call of the surf

So much of the surfing’s rewards come with the experience, and its the subtleties that make all the difference. It’s the taste of the salt on your lips, the press of warm sun on your face and the distinct rush that you get as the wave gathers you in its curl and lets you glide across the surf for a few thrilling seconds.

Even then, those few seconds will make your day. Nothing can match the adrenaline rush of looking over your shoulder after popping up and then toppling over from exhaustion. There’s no thrill like it—and you’ll soon realize why it’s reason enough to chase swells up and down the coast for the rest of your life.

Aloha Boardsports is the exclusive distributor of premier boardsport products like Volcom, Dakine and Lost. For more information, visit www.alohaboardsports.com