Watch out for Surf rage

As surfing becomes more and more popular, especially as the temperatures rise, the number of beginner surfers in the water increases.

More bodies and more surfboards in the lineup mean more crowded waves. Especially at some of the smaller coves and sheltered spots where there is less space.

These conditions can lead to surf rage – where a surfer loses their temper and there is an incident. A basic lack of understanding of the ocean and the rules of surfing can cause serious problems in the water as tempers flare.

Inexperienced surfers often take waves without being aware of the “dropping in” rule. This rule governs who has priority on the wave. The surfer closest to the curl or breaking part of the wave has priority.

Experienced surfers can catch a wave just as it starts to break and be on their feet and riding in a flash. The inexperienced surfer, further down the wave, will then be in the way. Not only does this ruin the ride for the surfer riding on the wave, but it can also cause a collision. This is definitely the biggest reason for a surf rage incident.

“Dropping in” is not the only potential source of surf rage, says Nigel Potts, Master Coach/Director, at the Academy of Surfing Instructors, and author of Learn to Surf manual/ DVD.

Inexperienced surfers usually have little “ocean knowledge”. Rips and currents can easily drag a beginner surfer out into the larger waves and in the way of experienced surfers.

To make matters worse, the inexperienced surfer may not know how to get back into shore. They often swim into the rip or current and tire themselves out.

Inability to read waves is also another area where inexperienced surfers can get into trouble. Some waves are suitable for surfing and others are not. Just like some beach areas are more suitable for surfing for beginners and much safer.

Understanding more about surfing and the ocean is definitely required before heading out on a surfboard. Most sports need some level of theory before delving into the sport. Scuba diving, for example, requires people to understand something about their equipment and safety issues before going into the water. The same is true for surfing.

Unfortunately, many people think they can just jump on a surfboard and just do it. “Because they have not bothered to learn more about their equipment, the ocean, surfing rules and safety, they become a potential danger in the water,” says Potts.

It is for this reason that ASI has published Learn to Surf manuals and DVDs especially for the beginner, intermediate and advanced surfers.

Surfing is a great sport and surf rage can be easily avoided if everyone is a little more educated when it comes to surfing safely and responsibly.

ASI Learn to Surf Books – Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced levels and DVDs can be purchased from the ASI website
https://www.academyofsurfing.com/store

Or contact an ASI Accredited surf school to find out how to surf safely. 
Find ASI Schools https://www.academyofsurfing.com/school

About ASI 
ASI is a professional membership and training organisation and international governing body for instructors, coaches and schools in the outdoor recreation industry for surfing, stand up paddle and bodyboarding.
ASI Accredited Schools abide by the high international standards for operations, training and safety.
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