The thought of trying out surf lessons always pops to mind when going to the seaside on holidays or living next to the sea. It doesn’t matter how old you are, surfing has something that attracts everyone and just makes you wonder what riding a wave feels like.
Well, today we are coming to your rescue at Kaboti. Let’s get you started on selecting the best surf school for what you want to do.
¿Why is choosing a good surf school important when learning to surf?
As in everything, the learning process is different for everyone. That means that the school you choose needs to somehow adapt to your learning needs and teach you in a way you will understand and will be able to progress.
Choosing the right school for you not only will make you progress further, it will also motivate you and get you in touch with like minded individuals who mind become your next lifelong friends.
Plus, if you are traveling around and enjoying a relaxing holiday, taking some beginner surf lessons at your destination might make the whole experience a whole lot better and leave you dreaming about going to the same place again and again.
¿What to look for in a good surf school?
Let’s cut to the chase, what do you need to look for:
1. Proximity & location of the surf school
We know, we know… Motivation is enough to get you moving, but a surf school that’s nearby is always easier to access and your chances of going become just higher. Plus, you will always be able to see the weather conditions around you and decide if it’s a good day to catch waves.
2. Safe environment for your surf lessons
If you are taking some beginner lessons and generally just starting in the surfing world, it’s always positive to know you are honing your skills in a safe environment with no tricky currents or risky wave breaks.
3. Certified surf instructors
It doesn’t really matter if you are a complete beginner or if you have already taken a few surf classes. It’s always important that your surf lessons are taught by an experienced surf coach or instructor. Ideally, your surf instructor will also be certified in what they are teaching as well as water rescue and safety techniques.
4. Surf lessons should have a small student group.
It’s very common to see group lessons when it comes to surfing. In fact, being in a group will not affect your progress much, but it will definitely help you in other areas of your journey. You will get to know other people of your same level, you will be able to have a healthy learning competition going on and you will be able to learn from your peers.
However, a good surfing school will also give you the option of booking private lessons. Just you, your instructor and maybe a friend of yours if you are up for it. These private surf lessons will be more physically demanding and will exhaust you in a shorter time. You also won’t have the social aspect of taking on some surfing classes, but the instructor will be following your each and every step so you keep learning every single second.
5. Surf lessons including surf gear free of charge
Professional surfers almost always have everything they need to start surfing. If you, on the other hand, are just starting out and booking your first surf holiday lessons, you won’t have a surfboard, water resistant sunscreen or a rashguard.
Luckily, most of the surf shops out there will include the rental of all the surf gear you will need in their lesson price. That means that when you arrive (and make sure you make it to the surf school a few minutes before your lesson starts) you will try on the gear that works for you.
6. The gear provided is in good condition
It’s also vital that the equipment provided for you beginner surf lessons is in good shape and is suited for your level. There are tons of surfboard shapes & sizes, rash guards, etc. however, some are more suitable for beginners and others are for pros. Make sure the ones you are provided are the right ones as this will be a crucial part of being able to control your surfboard and improve your surf skills.
7. Your surf school should provide an insurance
The risk of something happening to you while surfing is extremely low, especially when we are talking about beginner surf lessons. However, the risk is still there.
Trust us on this one, saving up a few dollars or euros is not worth it. When you book a surf lesson, make sure you tick the insurance box to stay protected both physically and as a customer.
8. Get in the right vibe environment
Maybe one of the most important ones here, maybe even more important than working on good techniques and surfing tricks. You need to have a good vibe and just feel happy and excited about the surfing school you are joining. It will make a difference, we promise!
¿Ready to start your surfing journey?
Now that you have the basics, it’s time to check out what’s the best lesson for your level and book it. As for the school? You got it right, we got everything above covered at Kaboti. With an experienced and international team, we are sure you will get our passion for surf and our love for the island of Lanzarote. And, if you have any questions or need us to advice you in any way, feel free to reach out!