It swells time people! This is the best time to go surfing when swells are surging and the water warmest. Best of all, you will most probably have the waters all to yourself. Let not this pandemic stop you! It does not mean throwing all caution to the wind and getting stoked at your favourite surf hub with no care for the world. It means finding that COVID-free territory that you might not have ever tried before. This pandemic has opened new surfing doors for enthusiasts. Places they have never even thought of trying became their new surfing playground. So, surf the net for these places and then hit the waves with your DHD surfboards!
Australia has the second largest population of surfers in the world, next to the United States. At 2.5 million surfers, one in every 10 Aussies surf. It is Aussie’s way of life. No matter how familiar you are with anything, it is never a crime to err on the side of caution. It will not hurt to remind and get reminded of these caveats over and over.
Never Hit the Waters Under the Influence of Alcohol
This is basic. Every person knows that alcohol impairs coordination, reaction time, judgment, among many other things. Still, people dare.
Do Not Swim Or Take Off at Least 30 to 45 Minutes After a Light Meal
This is to allow your body to digest your food properly. Eating the right kind of meal in preparation for your surfing activities is key to maintaining endurance. Eating good quality carbohydrates will keep you fueled.
Remember to Also Maintain Your Fluid Targets
Keep water accessible. Being in the water does not mean you are hydrated. You can freeze some water bottles so they will be cool for you the next day. You obviously never see it, but you do sweat, and dehydration can cause early fatigue onset.
Keep Your Body Protected at All Times By Smothering Sunblock All Over Your Body
It is a wise thing to invest in a UV-proof long sleeves rash vest. People know you are a surfer because you carry those DHD surfboards. You don’t have to let your skin do the talking. Take care of your skin.
Always Take Off With a Surf Buddy
You never know who will need help under those barrels and breaks.
Always Warm-Up Before You Surf
Observe the waters while you stretch. This will reduce the risk of cramps and muscle injuries as well as give you a chance to rate the quality of the breaking waves and rips.
When Caught in a Rip, Relax and Do Not Panic
Raise your hand for help. And then float on your back, ride the rip until the current subsides. The rip will not bring you under the water so, float with it or paddle across the rip until you get out of it. Please do not attempt to paddle against it.
Be Friendly With the Locals
Respect them, and do not be a wave hog. Always remember that the surfer who is closest to a breaking wave owns it. You wait for your turn.
Practice before launch. There is no better way to enjoy surfing but to go home in one piece.