Perhaps the most famous fear for surfers are sharks. The danger is authentic, along with stingrays and poisonous jellyfish migrations and fire corals, but there are many other things a surfer has to worry about besides Cthulhu. For the newbie wave rider, ocean animals are the least of his worries if he fails to consider the basic elements of surfing safety.
In 1769, the art of riding the waves is officially defined. Then using ratchet boards, the sport has now changed into surfers welding Walden surfboards into the sea. Because it is considered as an extreme sport, there are several factors one has to review before going into the water.
Understanding the weather is a very important tool for wave riders. Because the sea is a dicey place to be, knowing how the weather affects it and why the sea behaves in such a way is your first task as a newbie. This is where you can evaluate whether you can handle the ocean today or not.
Notice where the waves are breaking consistently. If there are other surfers, do not hesitate to ask if the water is safe. Observe how they are also moving in the water, if they seem to be struggling to paddle or swim. If the ocean seems nasty, do not force yourself to go in, especially if you are on your own.
Check the features of the landscape. Keep your distance when you see jetties. Cliffs and piers are for very experienced surfers only, so steer clear from them if you are just starting to learn how to ride the waves. Look out for rocks and other geological obstacle that may impair or disfigure you.
Waves are more dangerous when they are larger. Ride the size that is within your skill set, and remember that water is heavy. Just to give you the numbers, one cubic foot of water is as good as sixty two pounds. Hollow and crumbling waves are great for hard surfing, but only deal with them when you already have the experience.
The same rule applies with currents. Rips are very strong currents formed by retreating waves and can be recognizable because it flows back. Avoid them lest you are a pro or a very experienced surfer. Never surf back against a rip current if you are ever caught in one. Those that paddle parallel to shore are called longshore currents. They are also dangerous as they can drag you, so be knowledgeable about them and learn how to overcome them. Never panic when you are caught in a strong current.
Comply with the honor code. Bad etiquette during surfing is the top hazard surfers face, the same way a mosh pit has its dangers. Flying surfboards and collisions are very much likely when the water is crowded and someone is reckless. Respect others for your own safety.
Finally, get your swimming skills ready. Some surfers make the mistake of depending too much on their surfboards for buoyancy. But they can be separated from you, so you should rely on your ability to swim against the current. Practice treading water to avoid cramps. Stay fit so you will have the energy and stamina to endure the tides.
In 1769, the art of riding the waves is officially defined. Then using ratchet boards, the sport has now changed into surfers welding Walden surfboards into the sea. Because it is considered as an extreme sport, there are several factors one has to review before going into the water.
Understanding the weather is a very important tool for wave riders. Because the sea is a dicey place to be, knowing how the weather affects it and why the sea behaves in such a way is your first task as a newbie. This is where you can evaluate whether you can handle the ocean today or not.
Notice where the waves are breaking consistently. If there are other surfers, do not hesitate to ask if the water is safe. Observe how they are also moving in the water, if they seem to be struggling to paddle or swim. If the ocean seems nasty, do not force yourself to go in, especially if you are on your own.
Check the features of the landscape. Keep your distance when you see jetties. Cliffs and piers are for very experienced surfers only, so steer clear from them if you are just starting to learn how to ride the waves. Look out for rocks and other geological obstacle that may impair or disfigure you.
Waves are more dangerous when they are larger. Ride the size that is within your skill set, and remember that water is heavy. Just to give you the numbers, one cubic foot of water is as good as sixty two pounds. Hollow and crumbling waves are great for hard surfing, but only deal with them when you already have the experience.
The same rule applies with currents. Rips are very strong currents formed by retreating waves and can be recognizable because it flows back. Avoid them lest you are a pro or a very experienced surfer. Never surf back against a rip current if you are ever caught in one. Those that paddle parallel to shore are called longshore currents. They are also dangerous as they can drag you, so be knowledgeable about them and learn how to overcome them. Never panic when you are caught in a strong current.
Comply with the honor code. Bad etiquette during surfing is the top hazard surfers face, the same way a mosh pit has its dangers. Flying surfboards and collisions are very much likely when the water is crowded and someone is reckless. Respect others for your own safety.
Finally, get your swimming skills ready. Some surfers make the mistake of depending too much on their surfboards for buoyancy. But they can be separated from you, so you should rely on your ability to swim against the current. Practice treading water to avoid cramps. Stay fit so you will have the energy and stamina to endure the tides.