Surfing is more than a sport; it’s a way of life in connection with nature. From the exhilarating feeling of the first take-off to the endless pursuit of the best waves, surfing is a blend of physical activity and learning of the ocean.
But learning surfing takes time, dedication, and patience. In this article, we’ll explore the 5 stages of learning surfing, from a beginner to an advanced level.
At Adrenalin Surf Maroc, our experienced coach will identify with you your current stage and define a path to reach the next one !
Stage 1: Getting Started to Learning Surfing
The journey begins with the decision to try surfing. Beginners often feel a mix of excitement and nervousness as they approach the water.
In this stage, aspiring surfers familiarise themselves with the basic equipment: a surfboard, leash, wetsuit, and potentially wax. They should also learn essential ocean safety guidelines, such as how to identify rip currents, respect local surfing etiquette, and navigate crowded lineups.
Tip: Starting by going on sandy spots such as CroCro or Devil’s Rock around Tamraght will bring beginners confidence to go into the water.
Stage 2: Paddling and Balance
After the warm-up, beginners will get into the water attached to their board. This is when they will realise surfing require some paddling and balance.
In this stage, novice surfers will be improving their balance by learning to take off onto the board and stay into an upward position. Coordination, core strength and weight distribution will be their new skills to master learning surfing.
Tip: Practising yoga regularly will brought you the required core muscles to stand-up and keep your balance. At Adrenalin Surf Maroc, daily yoga sessions are offered to stretch the engaged muscles and work on your proprioception.
Stage 3: Catching White Waves
Once confidence in paddling and balance are there, the new surfers will go toward catching their first wave. Focus is now on reading the ocean, timing the paddling and positioning themselves accordingly.
Each missed wave serves as a valuable learning experience, helping surfers refine their approach and develop a deeper understanding of wave dynamics.
Tip: Our surf school teachers will provide guidance out and in the water. During the first days, the surf team will even be pushing you to ensure you catch wave and work on your take-off.
Stage 4: Progressing to Green Waves
In this stage, intermediate surfers start the change their wave selection skills, paddle out to deeper water, and position themselves to catch waves before they break. They also start learning how to ride up and down the waves, get speed to perform manoeuvres.
Tip: Adrenalin Surf Maroc offers Coaching package to help you with this stage. A surf coach will be with you in the water to share advices. Videos and pictures analysis will be realised to support your progress during your stay in Morocco.
Stage 5: Mastery and Innovation of learning surfing
The final stage of learning surfing is a lifelong journey of mastery and innovation. Experienced surfers continuously push their boundaries, seeking out new challenges, testing new spots and refining their technique with each session in the water. Whether carving graceful lines on overhead waves, charging down the face of a barrel, or experimenting with progressive manoeuvres, surfers in this stage embody the essence of surfing as a dynamic and ever-evolving art form.
Tip: From November to March, the waves season is on around Taghazout Bay. The main worldly famous spot is Anchor Point. Stay with us to be able to ride it !
Conclusion
Learning to surf is a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and moments of pure joy alongside frustration. Each stage of learning surfing offers its own unique rewards and lessons.
Our team will always be there for you, as well as the welcoming people of Morocco. So grab your board, wax up, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime—it’s time to ride the waves!
