The basics of surfing
How to Get Started in Capbreton and Hossegor
Capbreton and Hossegor, located on the Landes coast, are must-visit destinations for surf enthusiasts. Known for their impressive waves and vast beaches, these two towns attract surfers of all levels every year. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique, learning to surf in this region is a unique experience. In this article, we will guide you through the basics of surfing so you can start your adventure with confidence.
Choosing the Right Surfboard
Choosing the right board is crucial for getting started. If you’re a beginner, it’s advisable to opt for a long, stable board. The soft-top boards (with a soft surface) are perfect for your first experiences since they offer extra safety in case of a fall and are easier to maneuver.
Longer boards (7 to 9 feet) will help you catch waves more effectively and stay afloat, making it easier to maintain your balance. Once you have gained more confidence and technique, you can move on to shorter boards, which are more maneuverable and ideal for intermediate surfers.
Basic Positions and Posture
When you start surfing, it’s essential to learn the proper posture to ensure your balance and safety. Here are some tips on how to position yourself correctly:
- On the board: Lie down on your board so that your center of gravity aligns with the center of the board. Keep your arms slightly bent and your hands close to your chest. Your head should be raised and facing forward to have a clear view of what’s happening around you.
- The “poppin'” position: This is the essential movement to transition from lying down to standing. When you feel the wave pushing you, quickly bring your feet under you, maintaining proper body alignment. Try to make this movement smooth and swift, without locking your joints.
- Standing on the board: Once you are up, slightly widen your stance to maintain good balance. Your back foot should be at the rear of the board, while your front foot should align with your hips. Keep your knees bent, your back straight, and your arms out to help maintain balance.
Reading Waves and Positioning Yourself
One of the key skills in surfing is the ability to read waves. Knowing how to spot the right wave for you, choose your position, and prepare for the “take-off” is fundamental. Here are some tips to help you:
- Observe the waves: Before getting into the water, take a few minutes to watch the waves. The waves at Capbreton and Hossegor can be powerful and fast, so it’s important to understand where they break and their direction. Look for a wave that’s not too big to start with, and make sure there are no hazards like rocks or other surfers in your path.
- Position yourself in the water: When you’re in the water, try to position yourself in the zone where the waves are breaking, but not too close to the shore. You need to find a balance point to paddle toward the wave without being carried too far out. If you’re too close to the shore, you won’t be able to catch enough waves to practice effectively.
Safety Rules and Respect for Fellow Surfers
Surfing, while fun, can be dangerous, especially if safety rules are not followed. Here are some essential rules to ensure your safety and that of others:
- Wear a leash: The leash (a safety cord attached to your ankle) is essential. It prevents you from losing your board and allows you to retrieve it after a fall.
- Respect the right of way: As with any group activity, there are priority rules in surfing. The main rule is that the surfer closest to the peak of the wave (the point where the wave starts to break) has the right of way. Respect other surfers and stay aware of those around you to avoid collisions.
- Don’t go out alone: If you’re a beginner, it’s highly recommended to take lessons with a qualified instructor, especially if you’re surfing alone. This helps you better understand the waves and practice in a safe environment.
Choosing the Ideal Surf School in Capbreton and Hossegor
Capbreton and Hossegor offer a wide range of surf schools for all levels. It’s important to choose a school that provides lessons tailored to your skill level and employs experienced, certified instructors. A good school will also supply all the necessary equipment, including surfboards and wetsuits.
Choosing a local school has an additional advantage: the instructors are highly familiar with the local waves and can offer personalized advice based on the day’s conditions.
Practice: Patience and Perseverance
Surfing is a sport that requires a lot of patience and perseverance. Don’t expect to become an expert on your first day. You’ll fall, you’ll get tired, but with every session, you’ll learn something new. The more you practice, the more confidence and skill you’ll gain.
The ocean conditions in Capbreton and Hossegor are ideal for rapid progress, thanks to the diversity of the waves and the consistency of the swells. Even if you’re a complete beginner, with a bit of practice, you’ll see improvement quickly.
Surfing is an exhilarating experience that allows you to connect with the ocean and take on personal challenges. Capbreton and Hossegor, with their varied waves and beautiful beaches, are perfect places to begin this adventure. By choosing the right board, adopting the right posture, and respecting safety rules, you’ll be able to fully enjoy every surfing session. So, don’t wait—grab your board, put on your wetsuit, and dive into the surfing adventure!