Surf Wise Level 3 Beginner Surfer

Overview

Learn how to trim on broken or green waves, perform small turns and correct surfing etiquette including the drop in rule.

Aim

Ride a broken or green wave on an angle (trimming) in surf up to 1 ½ ft.

Locations and Conditions

  • Gentle breaking waves of white water less than 1 ½ feet (½ metre)

  • Sandy beach and ocean floor with even gradient (no rocks or reef)

  • Free from rocks

  • Free from rips and currents

  • Water depth of chest deep or less

  • No dumping shore break

  • Wind less than 20 kilometres per hour (approx. 12.5 miles per hour)

Equipment

  • Beginner softboard with soft fin

  • Leg-rope (leash)

Knowledge & Skills

  • Surf Safety

  • Swim 50 metres

  • Able to tread water for 5 minutes

Surfing Environment

  • Identify surfing hazards

  • Identify suitable weather conditions for surfing

  • Identify the types of waves suitable for surfing

  • Choose a safe surfing location

  • Identify how to look after the surfing environment

Equipment

  • Choose a beginners surfboard

  • Wax, care, carry and store your board

  • Identify types of wetsuits and surf clothing, when to wear these

Surfing Skills

  • Choose a safe place to enter the water

  • Negotiate small waves using a variety of techniques

  • Paddle the board in trim

  • Turn the surfboard in a sitting position

  • Use safe wipe-out and dismount techniques

  • Identify correct surfing etiquette (drop in rule, snaking, good surfing ethics)

Surfing Manoeuvres

  • Ride a broken or green wave on an angle (trimming)

  • Perform small turns

Level 3 Beginner Surfer