Surfing is one of the most exhilarating and rewarding sports out there, but stepping into the ocean with a board can feel daunting if you're new to it. The waves, the currents, the possibility of falling—it's completely normal to feel nervous at first. The good news? With the right mindset and some practical tips, you can turn that nervous energy into excitement and build absolute confidence in the water. At Shokogi, we specialize in helping beginners feel comfortable and empowered on their surfing journey. Here's how you can do the same.
1. Understand That Fear is Normal
Before anything else, know that feeling nervous about surfing is entirely natural. Even experienced surfers have moments of hesitation, especially when facing bigger waves or unfamiliar conditions. Acknowledge your nerves, but don't let them control you. The ocean is a powerful force, and having a healthy respect for it is actually a good thing—it keeps you aware and safe. The key is to transform fear into focus.
2. Start Small and Choose the Right Conditions
One of the biggest mistakes beginner surfers make is paddling out in too challenging conditions. If you're nervous, start in small, gentle waves in waist-deep water. Playa Venao, where Shokogi is located, is perfect for beginners, offering forgiving waves ideal for learning. When choosing a surf spot, look for locations with sandy bottoms, minimal crowds, and slow, rolling waves. Avoid heavy shore breaks or large swells until you build more confidence.
3. Take a Lesson from an Experienced Instructor
Nothing boosts confidence like learning from an expert. A qualified surf instructor can teach you proper technique, ocean safety, and how to read waves—all essential for feeling more comfortable in the water. At Shokogi, our experienced instructors specialize in working with nervous beginners, providing guidance that makes learning fun and stress-free.
4. Get Comfortable in the Ocean
If you're not used to being in the ocean, take time to familiarize yourself with it before even attempting to surf. Spend time swimming in the waves, floating on your back, and feeling how the ocean moves you. Understanding the rhythm of the water helps reduce anxiety and allows you to feel more at ease once you're on a surfboard.
5. Master the Basics on Land First
Confidence in the water starts on land. Practice your pop-up (the movement from lying on the board to standing up) on the beach before paddling out. This helps build muscle memory and reduces hesitation once you're in the water. Also, familiarize yourself with paddling techniques, balancing on your board, and positioning yourself correctly. The more comfortable you are with the basics, the more confident you'll feel when it's time to catch a wave.
6. Use a Soft-Top Surfboard
A soft-top surfboard is your best friend as a beginner. These boards are more stable, buoyant, and forgiving than hardboards, making it easier to catch waves and stay balanced. Plus, they are safer in case of wipeouts—no hard edges to worry about if the board bumps into you. At Shokogi, we recommend our Ocean Monkey soft-top boards, perfect for building confidence in the water.
7. Focus on Your Breath and Stay Relaxed
When nervousness creeps in, take a deep breath and remind yourself to stay relaxed. Tension in your body makes balancing more difficult. Loosen your grip, keep your knees bent, and let your body flow with the movement of the board and the water. If you fall (which you will!), laugh it off, paddle back out, and try again.
8. Learn How to Fall Safely
One of the biggest fears beginner surfers have is falling. The trick is not to avoid falling but to learn how to do it safely. When you wipe out:
- Fall backward or fall flat, like a starfish, to avoid diving headfirst into the water.
- Cover your head with your arms to protect yourself in case your board is nearby.
- Relax and let the wave push you—it will be over in a second.
- Come up slowly and look around before surfacing to avoid your board.
9. Paddle with Purpose
A strong paddle gives you control and confidence in the water. Many beginners hesitate when paddling for a wave, which can lead to missing the wave or getting tossed by it. When you commit to catching a wave, paddle with power, keep your eyes forward and trust yourself. The more decisive you are, the more control you'll have over your ride.
10. Surf with a Buddy
Having a surf buddy provides an extra layer of safety and encouragement. Knowing someone is there to support you makes the experience less intimidating, whether it's a friend or an instructor. At Shokogi, we encourage beginners to surf in groups so they can learn together and build confidence as a team.
11. Develop a Pre-Surf Routine
A solid pre-surf routine can calm nerves and set you up for success. Try this before hitting the water:
- Do some light stretching to loosen up your body.
- Take a few deep breaths to center yourself.
- Observe the waves and note where others are catching them.
- Remind yourself that surfing is about fun, not perfection.
12. Be Patient and Celebrate Small Wins
Surfing takes time to master. Even the best surfers started as beginners, struggling to stand up and read waves. Celebrate your progress instead of focusing on what you can't do yet. Did you catch a wave on your knees? That's a win! Did you paddle out without hesitation? Another win! Each small achievement builds your confidence over time.
13. Visualize Success
Visualization is a powerful tool for overcoming fear. Before paddling out, close your eyes and imagine yourself catching a wave smoothly, popping up smoothly, and riding the wave. By mentally rehearsing success, your body will follow suit when the time comes.
14. Trust the Process and Have Fun
At the end of the day, surfing is supposed to be fun! Don't put too much pressure on yourself to be perfect. Enjoy the ocean, the sun, and the experience of learning something new. The more fun you have, the more your confidence will naturally grow.
Ready to Build Your Confidence in the Water?
At Shokogi, we specialize in helping beginner surfers overcome their fears and develop skills that will keep them coming back for more. Whether taking your first lesson or looking to improve your confidence, our team is here to support you. Book a lesson with us in Playa Venao and start your surfing journey with expert guidance and a supportive environment. The waves are waiting for you!
