As you progress from beginner to intermediate, it's time to refine your skills and expand your wave-riding horizons.
Words by Adam Simpson | 15th May' 25
You've caught the bug, haven't you? The feeling of gliding across the water, the thrill of catching your first green waves – it's intoxicating. At Soul & Surf, we believe this is just the beginning of your surfing adventure. Here are some tips and theory to help you on your journey:
Image by Joel Rollason
At Soul & Surf, we teach everything in alignment with our Soul of Surfing programme. We believe that learning to surf is not a linear progression, but one represented more in our progression charts. Whenever we learn a skill the objective is to become unconsciously able – do you think Mikey Feb has to think about those beautiful cutbacks at J-Bay? I don’t think so! They become second nature. Surfing can be incredibly frustrating so we employ our blue health principles during our classes to help you keep you in the present, on a beach, in either Portugal, India or Sri Lanka, and most importantly, having a good play in the sea.
A smooth and efficient pop-up is the foundation of catching unbroken waves.
Tip: Practice popping up on land until it becomes second nature. Focus on a quick and fluid motion, bringing your feet to your stance in one swift movement. Visualize yourself catching a wave and popping up effortlessly.
Theory: Understand the importance of timing and positioning your feet correctly on the board. A balanced stance is crucial for stability and control.
Soul & Surf Connection: Remember the emphasis on mindfulness? A good pop-up requires focus and coordination, being fully present in the moment to react to the wave’s energy.
Make it look easy, the next big step in advancing, is nailing your technique, positioning and paddle.
Tip: Intermediate surfers tend to get intimidated by good surfers in the water, they are in flow and know the waves, if you sit away from them, the chances are, you won’t catch waves. Watch and learn how they are doing it.
Theory: use a board that’s big enough, a small board is no use if you’re learning to catch waves. Know your level, if it’s huge, maybe it’s not the day to paddle out. Remember gravity is the reason we can catch these waves – being further forward on our board helps us start sliding down the wave – Toes on the tail is a general rule, but doesn’t always work.
Soul & Surf connection: For this huge step, you’re gonna have to use all the principles of blue health to keep your frustration down, it’s a big one.
Image by Peter Chamberlain
The bottom turn is your gateway to maneuvering on the wave face. It's all about redirecting your board and generating speed.
As you venture further out, you'll encounter larger waves. Learning to duck dive and paddle effectively is essential for getting past the break.
Falling is an inevitable part of surfing. Don't let it discourage you.
Image by Katie Arae
By focusing on these tips and understanding the underlying theory, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and competent intermediate surfer. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. So, enjoy the process, embrace the challenges, and savor every moment in the water.
