How To Handle A Surfing Wipeout
Surfing is a fun water activity to engage in, but it is not without its dangers. One of the main issues that pose a great danger is handling a surfing wipeout. Though the thrill of surfing is so worth it, some people may not want to deal with the fear of going under. The good news is that there are ways to get out of it unscathed and also untraumatized. Fret not, you are probably not the first and will not be the last to have a frightful experience. So, here are some tips to help surf enthusiasts survive a surfing wipeout effortlessly.
1. Ensure That You Are Physically Fit
Like other activities where energy needs to be exerted, staying in tip-top shape is key. It will definitely go a long way to ensure that you keep your head above the water when it is needed. So anyone looking to surf should engage in some cardio exercises that will help increase their lung capacity. Another thing that would help is yoga which helps with flexibility and a sense of calmness during wipeouts. It may seem like surfing does not need that much stretching out or physical effort, but do not be deceived. Being physically prepared could be the one thing that saves you from totally losing your mind… or life. Another good thing is to listen to bodily cues if you get exhausted it officially makes you more vulnerable. So, be sure to gauge how fit you are and stay out in the water based on that. Being agile is a big part of surfing and any physical activity as a whole so, try to build up a tolerance and listen to your body.
2. Be Competent In The Water
If you are going to survive any form of watersports, then you need to be competent in the water. Best believe that it is the key to survival, especially when confronted with a surfing wipeout. It is common sense that the surfers who are more likely to get through a wipeout unscathed are those who are ready for whatever the water has to offer. It does not only pay to spend as much time surfing as possible but swimming, in general, is a good way to go. Everything from swimming to diving is enough to improve lung capacity as well as confidence in tricky situations. In a nutshell, before you run you need to learn how to crawl. Do not jump on your board right away, rather get acquainted with the water and it will seem less daunting.
3. Be Aware Of Your Environment
You may be the most skillful surfer there is out there, but if you do not know the layout of the land you are pretty much blind. Anytime you are planning to go out to a new spot, watch other people intently. Of course not in a creepy way, but basically do it to understand the task you are about to embark on. The saying ‘what you know cannot hurt you’ is the exact opposite in this case. Knowledge is everything in this case if watching people is not enough, go on to collect information about the area you are looking to surf in. Find out about things like the seafloor characteristics, wave tendencies or any other issues that may pose as hazardous. All in all, get enough information about your surf spot to keep you prepared for anything out there. Paddling to the wrong spot is not something any surfer wants to deal with, so keep an eye out for rocks, reef and the likes of them.
4. Be Completely Realistic
This is one of the main mindsets that surfers should be equipped with. Stay grounded and stay realistic, this will ensure that you stay out of potentially dangerous zones. The truth of the matter is that no one is more aware of how good you are at surfing than you. In situations like this, there is no need to pretend to be something that you are not. Be honest and stick to the level you are on till you are able to gradually move on from that.
The biggest mistake you can make is to underestimate the strength of the water. So, if you are not yet prepared for a double overhead surf, simply do not do it. Be comforted by the fact that the water is probably not going anywhere, as such you have all the time in the world to improve your surfing game. Keep in mind the fact that doing anything otherwise will probably end in death or serious injury. Take it one step at a time and you will be braving those wipeouts like a pro in no time.
5. Train Yourself To Think Quick
There is a big difference between being in a situation and hearing about it. In order to be able to navigate the situation in the right way, you need to be able to think on your feet. Once you are in the water, everything happens so quick. The key is not to panic but rather to think as fast as possible. It is advisable to launch yourself towards the back of the wave if it is possible at the time. Be sure to head in bottom first and take a deep breath on your way there. Then proceed to ball up loosely in order to break the surface as soon as possible.
Next, you should tuck your chin in so as to protect your head from any impact. In the process of all this, be sure to distance yourself from the surfboard for your own good. If you can, proceed to swim low to where the water is a lot less unruly. Once the tide has settled get back to your board if you can and paddle out of the impact zone as soon as possible.
It may sound quite doable, but be sure to prepare yourself to act as fast as can be, it may be the one thing that saves you.
