Surfing for Grandparents

Embracing the Waves: A Grandparent’s Guide to Beginning Surfing

Surfing is often viewed as a sport for the young, athletic, and reckless. However, that perspective is rapidly changing. Surfing, when approached with patience and the right technique, is an incredible pursuit for adults of any age, including grandparents looking for a new adventure. The ocean offers a unique blend of cardiovascular exercise, mental clarity, and pure joy that keeps you feeling young at heart. Here are twelve essential tips and insights for grandparents beginning their surfing journey.

1. Choose the Right EquipmentAs a beginner, particularly an older one, your best friend is a long, soft-top surfboard. These boards are buoyant, stable, and forgiving, making it much easier to catch waves and stand up. Avoid short, thin boards designed for pros; they will only lead to frustration. A foam longboard (9 to 10 feet) provides the stability needed for confidence in the water.

2. Prioritize Safety and GearSafety is paramount. Always wear a leash attached to your ankle, so the board stays with you. Consider a wetsuit, even in warmer water, as it offers protection from cold, sun, and abrasive sand. Also, a rash guard and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable for sun protection.

3. Take Professional LessonsDo not try to teach yourself. Hiring a professional coach for your first few sessions is crucial. They will teach you the proper techniques for paddling, popping up, and ocean safety, preventing bad habits from forming and reducing the risk of injury. A good instructor will guide you at your own pace, ensuring a positive experience.

4. Master the Pop-Up on LandThe “pop-up”—moving from lying down to standing—is the most challenging part of surfing. Practice this motion at home on the floor or in the sand. It strengthens muscle memory, making the move instinctual when you are in the water. Focus on a fluid, controlled motion rather than speed.

5. Respect the Ocean and Understand Surf EtiquetteThe ocean is powerful, and understanding it is key. Learn about rip currents, sandbars, and wave mechanics. Understand surf etiquette: the person closest to the peak (where the wave breaks) has right-of-way. As a beginner, it is safest to surf at a spot designed for learners.

6. Focus on Core Strength and FlexibilitySurfing requires core strength, balance, and flexibility. Incorporate swimming, yoga, or stretching into your routine to prepare your body. Flexibility in your hips and shoulders will specifically help with paddling and the pop-up maneuver.

7. Start in Small WavesChoose days with small, slow-breaking white water. You want to practice the mechanics of standing, not fighting massive waves. White water (the foam) is consistent and perfect for building confidence and balance.

8. Learn the Proper Paddle TechniqueSurfing is 90 percent paddling. Keep your body centered on the board and look up to keep your nose above the water. Use long, efficient strokes rather than short, frantic ones to save energy.

9. Relax Your Mind and BodySurfing can be intimidating, but tension is your enemy. Keep your shoulders relaxed and your mind calm. If you feel panicked, sit up on your board and breathe. The goal is enjoyment and connection with nature, not competition.

10. Look Where You Want To GoA fundamental rule in surfing is that your board follows your gaze. When popping up, don’t look down at your feet or the board. Look forward toward the beach or in the direction you want to travel.

11. Pace Yourself and Listen to Your BodySurfing is demanding. Don’t feel pressured to stay in the water for hours. A solid 45-minute session is often enough for a beginner. Take breaks, hydrate, and know when to stop before you are completely exhausted.

12. Embrace the Journey and Celebrate Small WinsYou may not stand up on your first day, and that is perfectly okay. Celebrate getting out into the ocean, catching a wave on your stomach, or feeling the rush of the ocean. Surfing is a long-term journey, and the joy is in the process.

Surfing at a later stage in life is less about high-performance riding and more about the connection to the sea and the thrill of the ride. By starting with the right equipment, focusing on safety, and pacing yourself, you can enjoy the ocean’s energy for years to come. It’s a wonderful way to challenge yourself, get fit, and experience a new sense of freedom. Embrace the waves and enjoy the ride.