Learn to Surf/Paddlesurf?

Definitely do a regular surf lesson. It will help you understand the ocean and give you another perspective. It'll be easier to be in the surf zone with just a surfboard - rather than having to deal with a SUP and paddle as well.

Monday, 14 November 2011 11:37

Susan Simmons,

Hey, Rob

I think you meant to address me, not Erin, as she sounds like she has a clue as to what she's doing in the surf. I'm the one who has been asking away. Thanks for all the great info!

Tuesday, 11 October 2011 11:49

Rob Casey ,

erin,
for next time, a few thoughts. if you want to learn sup surfing, do that instead of spending time learning 'traditional' board surfing as they are different in terms of catching the wave itself.

per going out, pick an uncrowded or empty spot, small waves (up to you waist) and use a leash. best to take a lesson and if not google up surf etiquette and learn the basics in case there are people around - simply, give waves, don't be a wave hog, and don't drop in on someone already on the wave.

learn the pivot turn on flat water, as well as cross bow and/or sweep turns. this will save you time once in the surf in turning around both at the beach and in the waves. per the pivot (180) turn, keep you paddle in the water at all times! once you take it out, you swim. keep the paddle active which acts as a brace or tripod. even when you move back towards center, paddle forward as you go. practice... check out my book for more basic surfing tips. cheers

Tuesday, 11 October 2011 09:54

Susan Simmons,

Erin,

I actually stayed in Carlsbad the first half of vacation and visited the lagoon, but it was foggy all week and never lifted, plus red tide, so we went to SD. I'm in the high desret near Joshua Tree National Park. It's a drive, but Mission Bay is definitely worth it. The next time we go there I'll let you know in advance.

Monday, 10 October 2011 03:20

Erin Blunt Robbins,

Susan, I'm glad you had a fun time in San Diego. This is where I live! I go to the Carlsbad lagoon all the time! If you're still around, I'm going out this evening! Let me know! ;-)

Monday, 10 October 2011 00:26

Susan Simmons,

Well, I went on vacation, but I wasn't able to learn to paddlesurf, as there was a red tide (I am NOT getting in that water)! My time in San Diego was limited, but I did get to paddleboard Mission Bay. Next time I want to go around the island. It was awesome! Now I have a new favorite place. Thanks to everybody on this thread that gave me great advice (all of you did) and I will continue to practise my 180's. See ya around here!

Sunday, 09 October 2011 09:45

Susan Simmons,

Erin,
I have tried to step back, but I just haven't been able to sink the tail yet. Last week I was going to try Jason's advice, but I couldn't even shift my feet. They just felt glued to the deck! And if i picked one up...well you can guess! And i just wasn't in the mood to get wet that day. I've recently read somewhere that it's good to "walk" the board, to find out where you can go and where you can't relating to responsiveness of the board.

I get the feeling I'm over-thinking this and maybe i should just do it? (Like Nike says LOL) I'm going to the beach in a week and a half. There are some lagoons there, which is probably where I'll stay, except for Mission Bay, which is supposed to be fairly flat. So if I do try anything, it'll be 1 foot mush where the surfers don't go.

Thanks everybody!

Wednesday, 14 September 2011 04:49

Erin Blunt Robbins,

Jason, you've explained it well. It's fun to do and really helps to turn quickly. Susan, have you had a chance to give it a try?

Monday, 12 September 2011 14:03

Jason Norwood,

step back on that tail, so the nose pops up a bit and then forward stroke inside to wide outside for a fast turn.

if you are right foot forward then paddle hard on the right side. work on your strong side with your good foot forward. on your weak side you will most likely keep a parallel stance, but use your inside outside stroke.

keep on practicing and having fun.

try to spin a 360 once you complete a 180 :)

Friday, 02 September 2011 07:24

Susan Simmons,

Jason, do you mean for me to get on the tail, do I stroke at the same time, before or after I take a step back on the tail?

Friday, 02 September 2011 05:18