How to improve your surfing skills?
Proven Ways to Improve Your Surfing Skills Fast (Even Without Perfect Waves!)
Why Every Surfer Should Always Be Improving
No matter where you are in your surfing journey, there’s always room for improvement. Whether you're looking to paddle stronger, ride bigger waves, or land your first cutback, the right strategies can speed up your progress and help you get the most out of every session.
At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we've been in the game for over 30 years, outfitting surfers with the best gear and expert advice to level up their surfing. In this guide, we’ll share proven ways to improve your surfing skills—even when conditions aren’t ideal.
Ready to become a better surfer and take your skills to the next level? Let’s dive in!
Choose the Right Surfboard for Your Skill Level
The right board can make or break your progress. If you're struggling, you might be using the wrong board for your ability.
✔ Beginners & Intermediate Surfers: Stick with a soft-top or longboard for extra stability and easier paddling.
✔ Advanced Surfers: Experiment with a shorter board or a twin-fin setup for more speed and control.
Master Your Paddling Technique
Paddling is 80% of surfing, so refining your paddling technique will make catching waves easier and less tiring.
🔥 Pro Tips:
- Keep your chest lifted to reduce drag.
- Use long, deep strokes instead of short, frantic ones.
- Strengthen your shoulders, back, and core with land-based exercises like push-ups and swimming.
Improve Your Pop-Up for Faster Take-Offs
A slow or sloppy pop-up can cost you precious waves. Work on explosive pop-ups by practicing on land.
💪 Drill to Try:
- Start in a push-up position.
- Explode up, bringing your feet under your body in one swift motion.
- Land in a balanced stance, knees slightly bent.
- Repeat 10-20 times daily for muscle memory.
Learn to Read Waves Like a Pro
Knowing which waves to catch and where to position yourself is half the battle.
🌊 Key Signs of a Good Wave:
✅ A well-shaped, unbroken face
✅ A smooth, rolling peak
✅ A defined take-off zone
🏄 Pro Tip: Sit just outside the impact zone and watch how waves form before paddling into them.
Perfect Your Stance & Weight Distribution
Your stance determines your control and speed. The right positioning helps you:
- Generate more speed down the line
- Stay balanced through turns
- Land tricks with better control
✔ Keep knees bent & weight centered
✔ Your back foot should be over the tail pad for turns
✔ Use your arms for balance and momentum
Train Your Balance & Flexibility on Land
Improving balance and flexibility will improve your surfing stability and reduce injuries.
🏋️♂️ Land-Based Surf Training:
- Balance board exercises for stability
- Yoga for surfers to improve flexibility
- Skateboarding or surfskating to mimic carving movements
Improve Your Duck Diving or Turtle Rolling
Efficiently getting past waves is crucial, especially in bigger surf.
🐢 For Longboards: Use the turtle roll—flip the board upside down while holding onto the rails.
🦆 For Shortboards: Perfect your duck dive by diving deep, pushing the nose down first, then following with the tail.
Increase Your Surfing Endurance
Tired surfers miss waves! Boost your endurance with surf-specific cardio training:
🏊 Swim sprints (mimic paddling)
🏃♂️ Trail running or HIIT workouts
🧘 Breath-hold training for confidence in big waves
Watch & Learn from the Pros
The fastest way to improve? Study surfers who inspire you!
📺 Ways to Learn from Experts:
- Watch surf videos and analyze their stance, turns, and wave selection.
- Get a surf lesson or coaching session for instant feedback.
- Film your own surf sessions to spot areas for improvement.
Surf More Consistently!
Nothing beats consistent time in the water. Aim to surf at least 3-4 times a week to build muscle memory and confidence.
💡 No waves? Practice paddling, pop-ups, and balance training on flat days.
FAQs: Answering Your Most-Asked Surfing Questions
💬 How long does it take to get good at surfing?
Most people feel confident in small waves after 6 months to a year of regular surfing. To reach an intermediate level, expect 1-2 years of consistent practice.
💬 What’s the easiest surfboard to ride?
A soft-top longboard (8-9 feet) is best for beginners because it offers stability, easy paddling, and forgiveness on mistakes.
💬 How do I generate more speed on a wave?
Use proper weight distribution, smooth rail-to-rail transitions, and generate power from your legs instead of relying only on the wave.
💬 Can I surf if I’m not super fit?
Yes! Surfing builds fitness over time. But adding paddling exercises, core training, and flexibility work will speed up your improvement.
💬 What’s the best time of day to surf?
Early morning and late afternoon are best because of lighter winds and better wave conditions.
Level Up Your Surfing with the Right Mindset & Gear
Improving your surfing isn’t just about getting in the water—it’s about using the right techniques, training smarter, and choosing the right gear.
At Spunky’s Surf Shop, we’re here to help you progress faster, easier, and with more confidence. Whether you need a new surfboard, wetsuit, or accessories, we’ve got everything you need to level up your skills.