Every surfer you see threading barrels and carving turns started in the whitewater. The beginning is awkward, humbling, and absolutely worth it. Here is what to expect from your first lesson.
Your instructor will start on the beach, walking you through the pop-up motion: lying flat, hands beside your chest, pushing up and planting your feet in one fluid movement. Practice this on land until it feels automatic. In the water, everything happens fast.
The first waves you catch will be whitewater — broken waves that push you toward shore with forgiving force. Focus on your stance. Feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent, arms out for balance, eyes looking forward. Do not look down at the board. Ride it out to the sand and do it again. And again. The ocean is a patient teacher if you let it be.
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