You might have already heard about surfers getting eaten by sharks. You have also heard horror stories about the venomous jellyfish and the stingrays that have wounded many wave riders. But these ocean critters are not just the things you have to look out for when you are aspiring to surf the merciless sea.
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.
Landscape features may make or break your surfing experience. Watch out for jetties and do not dive from your board. There are real tales about people bumping their heads into a random rock when wiping out and such. Leave the piers and cliffs to the veteran surfers.
The waves can be the best friend or the worst enemy of a surfer. The bigger the wave, the more dangerous it is, so it is important to take note of what size you can handle at your current experience level. Keep in mind that one cubic foot of water is equivalent to 62 pounds. Hollow waves are also as dangerous as waves that crumble.
The ocean currents can be good or bad, depending on your tolerance, skill, and how adventurous you are. Currents that run parallel to the beach are called longshore currents, and can drag you if you are not careful. Be careful with rip currents.
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.
Landscape features may make or break your surfing experience. Watch out for jetties and do not dive from your board. There are real tales about people bumping their heads into a random rock when wiping out and such. Leave the piers and cliffs to the veteran surfers.
The waves can be the best friend or the worst enemy of a surfer. The bigger the wave, the more dangerous it is, so it is important to take note of what size you can handle at your current experience level. Keep in mind that one cubic foot of water is equivalent to 62 pounds. Hollow waves are also as dangerous as waves that crumble.
The ocean currents can be good or bad, depending on your tolerance, skill, and how adventurous you are. Currents that run parallel to the beach are called longshore currents, and can drag you if you are not careful. Be careful with rip currents.
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.
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