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