Gun And Long Board example essay topic

Sun, Sand, Sea, Magic. Adrenaline pulses through your body as you move in harmony with the raging sea. The sunlight reflecting off the surfaces of the water, as you glide effortlessly on your surfboard. The frothy cool foam of the sea, licking at your heels as you surf down the face of the swelling wave.

The thrill and excitement of surfing isn't easily described in words, its something to be experienced. With the proper equipment and learning some simple techniques anyone can learn to surf. Choosing a proper surfboard can be a daunting task. They come in such a wide variety of shapes and sizes it can be overwhelming. Basically there are three standard shapes and variations on these: short board, gun, and long board.

The short boards are designed for performance and speed. Short boards range from five feet to seven feet in length. The gun surfboards are your mid-sized shapes ranging in height from seven feet up to nine feet. Easier to learn on because of the extra length, yet more cumbersome to turn and maneuver. The long boards are nine feet and longer. Long boards are slow and smooth, catching waves easier because of the longer planning ability.

Long boards are the slowest to maneuver and handle quickly, because of their larger more cumbersome size. There are also different fin configurations to consider. A single fin is easier to control but lacks much maneuverability. A tri-fin design is harder to control but can really shred through the water, and you need more ability as a rider to see its potential. Typically you want a board at least a foot taller than you, but it's easier to learn on a longer board. A wider and thicker board is also easier to paddle on, so grab a gun sized board or taller with a single fin to start and soon you will want to move to a faster short board to really carve up the water!

Some additional items will make surfing more comfortable. A riding leash is a bungee like cord that attaches to the surfboard and has a Velcro strap for your ankle. Generally around six feet long this makes it easier to retrieve your board in an eventual wipeout. Wetsuits for various weather conditions are the full suit and short suit. They keep you warm and help against minor abrasions. Now we have the proper gear lets do some practice.

Surfing is a very physically intensive sport. You need a certain degree of athletic ability to move you and the surfboard through the water. Start on the beach and do some light stretches and running to limber up and get your blood circulating. Learning proper body positioning and standing is crucial for your transition into the water. Lay the board flat on the ground, and lie centered in the middle. Extend your arms and practice alternating paddling strokes.

To stand up, place your palms flat at chest level on the board. Grabbing the sides of the board causes instability. So make sure your palms are on top of the board. Now push up so your chest is off the board. Then, in a swift motion, jump to your lead foot, either left or right. Plant your feet about chest length apart.

Your rear foot should be closer to the back of the board in a slight vs. position. The key is to stay low. So bend your knees and keep your arms out for added stability. Practice this until it becomes one fluid motion. Now time to get into the water. Learning a few techniques in the water can make surfing easier.

One of the first is water safety. Always respect the ocean. The ocean has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it. So never turn your back on the water. Carry the board until your waist deep in water then get on top and paddle out.

If your paddling out and a wave looks like it is going to break on you, press your board under and raise your chest up so the water flows between you and the board. Recognizing good waves to catch takes time and patience, a flattened "A" shape is generally a good wave. Also you can catch the wave when you see the white water at the tip. Watching more experienced surfers' help because you can learn from their actions and watch their body positioning. The more experienced surfer's also know where to catch the best waves. Be aware and ready to move.

Surfing takes a lot of practice and patience, but the accomplishment is fulfilling. Over time you will see how your surfing has gradually improved. You will have confidence, and a greater surfing ability. Anyone can learn to surf with the proper equipment and knowledge.