One option for kids who don’t live near the ocean to practice surfing is to utilize artificial wave pools or standing wave machines. These facilities can provide a controlled environment for beginners to learn the basics of surfing before heading out to the open ocean. Additionally, kids can work on their balance and technique through other activities such as skateboarding, snowboarding, or wakeboarding, which can help build skills that translate to surfing.
Utilize Artificial Wave Pools
Artificial wave pools are becoming more popular around the world, offering a way for landlocked surfers to experience the thrill of catching a wave. These facilities use technology to create consistent waves that are ideal for practicing surfing skills. Some wave pools even offer coaching sessions to help beginners learn the fundamentals of surfing in a safe and controlled environment.
Try Standing Wave Machines
Standing wave machines are another option for kids looking to practice surfing away from the coast. These machines generate a stationary wave that allows surfers to ride continuously without the need for paddling out or waiting for the next wave. Kids can work on their balance, foot placement, and turning techniques on a standing wave machine, which can help them improve their skills before hitting the ocean.
Engage in Similar Activities
While surfing may not be possible for kids who don’t live near the ocean, there are other activities they can participate in to build skills that are essential for surfing. Some alternative activities include:
- Skateboarding: Skateboarding can help kids improve their balance, coordination, and board control, which are important skills for surfing.
- Snowboarding: Snowboarding involves similar movements to surfing, such as shifting weight, carving turns, and riding a board, making it a great way to practice skills that transfer to surfing.
- Wakeboarding: Wakeboarding on a lake or river can help kids work on their edge control, body positioning, and board handling, which are all valuable for surfing.
Take Surfing Lessons
Even if kids don’t live near the ocean, they can still benefit from taking surfing lessons when they have the opportunity to visit a coastal area. Professional instructors can provide valuable guidance on surfing techniques, ocean safety, and equipment selection, which can help kids progress more quickly in their surfing journey. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a vacation, taking surfing lessons can be a fun and educational experience for kids looking to improve their skills.
Watch Surfing Videos
Another way for kids to practice surfing skills is by watching surfing videos online or on TV. By studying professional surfers in action, kids can observe their techniques, body positioning, and wave selection strategies. Watching surfing videos can help kids visualize themselves riding waves and pick up valuable tips and tricks that they can incorporate into their own surfing practice.
Join a Surfing Club or Community
Even if kids don’t live near the ocean, they can still connect with other surfers through online forums, social media groups, or local surfing clubs. Joining a surfing community can provide kids with a sense of camaraderie, support, and motivation to continue practicing their surfing skills. Kids can share their progress, ask for advice, and stay inspired by interacting with other surfers who share their passion for the sport.
Practice on Land
Kids can also practice surfing skills on land to improve their balance, strength, and muscle memory. Some exercises and drills that can help kids prepare for surfing include:
- Balance exercises: Standing on a balance board, stability ball, or Indo Board can help kids develop core stability and proprioception, which are essential for maintaining balance on a surfboard.
- Strength training: Performing squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks can help kids build strength in their legs, core, and upper body, which are important for paddling, popping up, and maneuvering on a surfboard.
- Pop-up drills: Practicing pop-ups on a soft surface or on a skateboard deck can help kids improve their speed, timing, and technique for getting to their feet quickly when catching a wave.