Educating Yourself for a Surf Shop Career at the Boardwalk

Are you eager to start working at a surf shop near the boardwalk but find yourself with a surprising lack of surfing knowledge? Fear not! This article will guide you through a series of steps to help you get more educated in surfing, making you a valuable asset to any surf shop. Whether you're a newbie or just a beginner, the following strategies will help you build a solid foundation of knowledge about surfing, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new role.

Strategies for Learning Surfing

1. Read Books and Magazines: - Books: Begin with beginner books on surfing techniques, surf culture, and ocean safety to understand the basics. - Magazines: Consider subscribing to magazines like Surfer or Surfing for in-depth articles on gear, techniques, and popular surf spots.

2. Watch Videos and Documentaries: - YouTube: Surfing channels, tutorials, gear reviews, and surf life will provide numerous insights. - Documentaries: Dive into documentaries that explore the history, culture, and competitive aspects of surfing.

3. Take Surf Lessons: - Local Surf Schools: Sign up for begin surfing classes to gain hands-on experience and understand the basics of surfing.

4. Engage with Staff at Surf Shops: - Engage with Employees: Talk to skilful surfers working in the shop, ask them about their experiences, gear, and local surfing conditions.

5. Join Online Communities: - Forums and Social Media Groups: Dive into surfing forums, Facebook groups, or Reddit communities to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from fellow surfers.

6. Learn About Surf Equipment: - Types of Boards: Familiarize yourself with longboards, shortboards, fish, and other board types, along with their specific uses. - Accessories: Get to know wetsuits, leashes, and wax and other essential gear.

7. Understand Surf Etiquette and Safety: - Surf Etiquette: Research and get a handle on the basic rules and etiquette of surfing to ensure you conduct yourself properly in the lineup. - Safety: Learn about ocean safety, including rip currents, tides, and how to handle emergencies such as wipeouts or shark encounters.

8. Practice Fitness and Ocean Awareness: - Physical Fitness: Surfing requires a certain level of strength, balance, and endurance. Engage in activities like swimming, yoga, or paddleboarding to build these skills. - Ocean Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with ocean conditions, tides, and weather patterns that affect surfing. Understanding local waves and weather is crucial for safe and enjoyable sessions.

9. Attend Local Surf Events: - Competitions and Festivals: Participate in or volunteer at local surf competitions or festivals to be part of the surf culture, meet fellow surfers, and gain practical experience.

By following these steps, you'll build a solid foundation of knowledge about surfing, which will help you feel more confident working at a surf shop. Remember, the journey to mastering surfing is a lifelong process, and each step you take will bring you closer to your goals. Enjoy the exciting process of becoming a skilled surfer and a knowledgeable employee at a surf shop on the boardwalk!