| Longboard surfing is the best way to learn how | | | | beginners surf spot will have small, clean, slow |
| to surf. This is not to say that you can't learn on | | | | breaking waves. Longboards are best under these |
| smaller surfboards such as a shortboard, but | | | | conditions because they have maximum flotation |
| those boards will take much longer to learn on | | | | and can catch these waves even when smaller |
| and amount to greater frustration along the way. | | | | boards can't. |
| Better to surf those boards later. Notice the title | | | | Many beginners want to go to the coolest looking |
| says the "Easier Way" not the "Easy Way". That | | | | boards which is usually a shortboard. This is a |
| is because I don't want to imply that simply using | | | | common mistake that usually only leads to |
| a longboard will make learning to surf easy. | | | | frustration in the water. You want to to be |
| Longboards are just more forgiving than other | | | | catching some waves, even tiny ones, as soon as |
| boards. People who just start surfing simply don't | | | | possible. The fun you get will keep you motivated |
| have conditioned shoulders. Conditioning comes | | | | and after enough time and practice you can |
| with time and paddling a longboard will be hard | | | | switch to a smaller surfboard if you desire. You |
| enough but still much easier than a shortboard. | | | | really want to start out by taking a lesson. The |
| Longboards are more stable. Although less | | | | instructor will usually start you out on a soft top |
| maneuverable than other boards it's the stability | | | | longboard which is ideal for learning the basics. The |
| you want when you start out. This is especially | | | | other alternative is to have a friend that you |
| true for performing the pop up and assuming the | | | | know can surf take you out and show you the |
| proper stance on the board. You can take more | | | | ropes. |
| time getting to your feet (but still not too long) | | | | Because of the paddle, stability, and small wave |
| and also find foot placement a little more forgiving | | | | catching ability, longboards are ideal for learning to |
| than other surfboards. | | | | surf. Surfing mainly just requires persistence and |
| The gentle waves you will seek as a beginner are | | | | practice. Anybody can learn to surf with a |
| the perfect match for a longboard. The ideal | | | | longboard and enjoy catching waves. |