Ariel Gutiérrez gives us some tips to take that first step into the world of surfing.

It's not unusual for everyone to have at least one friend who has expressed a desire to learn to surf, and just like those who already know how to surf, at some point they became curious to try it; more and more people are getting involved in this beautiful and natural world.

Learning to surf is an unforgettable experience, and of course, not precisely because of how tired you might end up, but it's not surprising, since surfing is such a complete sport that it works practically all the muscles in our body.

Feeling the foam hitting your face or that indescribable sensation when standing on the board for the first time, is already something that generates great satisfaction for us to continue trying.

To try it for the first time, we must have a clear understanding of some basic knowledge, and beyond knowing the types and parts of the board, competition rules, and other technical details that can be learned along the way, the most fundamental thing is that everything starts from a feeling of wanting to learn something new and comes from the heart, so that we can experience it passionately and without frustrations or bad experiences.

Ariel Gutiérrez, a national surfer and graduate in Physiotherapy, tells us why he considers it important for people to learn to surf.

"It would be good to learn to surf to relieve stress and the daily routine that comes with work and study, plus surfing gives you the opportunity to be with yourself and nature, adding to the benefits that the sport generates in mental and physical health."

 

In addition, in this first installment for beginners, Ariel shares some of his knowledge and experience teaching lessons at his Hermosa Riders school with seven basic tips to get started in the sport of surfing.

- Find and choose a person or school that is truly qualified to teach the basics of the sport safely.

- Don't buy a board on the same day you try surfing for the first time, as you don't yet know the correct size and the speed at which you will progress.

- Learn on the right beaches according to your level, so you don't have failed attempts that will discourage you.

- Get good advice and learn about tides, currents and other aspects that influence good conditions when entering the water, after the first lessons and when you decide to try it alone.

- If after trying surfing you really become passionate about it, take aquatic rescue seminars to have the appropriate knowledge in case of an emergency.

- Wear appropriate clothing and sun protection to prevent sunburn.

- If you don't live on the coast or can't regularly attend surf lessons, practice swimming to improve your paddling technique and physical condition.

We hope we've given you some useful tips and that you're now eager to surf. Remember to always practice your technique on land so that when you stand up on the board in the water, everything will be easier.

Written by: Enrique Hernández

General Management: Marco Montero