At what age can you start learning to surf?

Surfing, the iconic board sport, attracts new enthusiasts every year, both children and adults. But one question often arises: at what age can you start learning to surf? Is there an ideal age to begin, and what prerequisites should you meet? This article provides detailed answers to help you get started safely.

Toddlers and surfing: a gentle introduction

Children can be introduced to surfing from a very young age in a fun and progressive way. Some parents choose to familiarize their children with the ocean from the age of 3, letting them play on a board in very shallow areas.

The idea isn't to teach them how to surf, but rather to get them used to the water and the movement of the waves. These initial experiences help develop the child's confidence and strengthen their comfort in the water.

Surf schools sometimes offer introductory sessions in the form of games, where children learn to be comfortable on a foam board, often lying down. The important thing at this age is to create an atmosphere of trust and fun so that the child retains a positive experience with the water and the waves.

The ideal age to start surfing lessons

Surf schools generally recommend starting group lessons around age 6. It is from this age that children have developed sufficient coordination and concentration to follow an instructor's instructions.

Children's lessons are designed to be fun and progressive. Young surfers start by learning to paddle on their board, then gently stand up on very small, gentle waves. The goal is to build their confidence while ensuring their safety.

The sessions are often short (between 30 and 60 minutes) to avoid tiring the children and to maintain their concentration. The schools use foam boards, which are lighter and safer, and wetsuits adapted to the water temperature.

Prerequisites: knowing how to swim and being comfortable in the water

Before starting to surf, it is essential that the child knows how to swim . This is not so much a question of performance, but rather of safety. The child must be able to move independently in the water and manage a fall without panicking.

Instructors often recommend a minimum level of swimming ability, such as being able to swim 25 meters without assistance, in order to feel more confident in case of a fall or current.

Learning to surf can be a great way to enhance children's water skills, as they gain confidence as they spend more time in the water.

The benefits of surfing for children

Surfing offers many advantages, including:

• Physical development : balance, coordination, muscle strength and endurance are required.
• Self-esteem : every wave caught, even briefly, is a success that boosts confidence.
• Environmental awareness : by spending time in the ocean, children learn to respect and protect their natural environment.
• Managing emotions : learning to control one's fear, to cope with the unexpected and to persevere are useful life skills.

Can adults also start surfing?

There is no age limit to start surfing! Many adults take it up, whether out of passion or to try a new physical activity.

Of course, the first few sessions can be more difficult than for a child, as flexibility and responsiveness decrease with age. But with good motivation and regular practice, it's entirely possible to progress quickly and have fun on the waves.

The key is to respect your own pace and accept gradual learning. Many schools offer courses tailored to adults, with personalized support.

Tips for a successful introduction

1. Choosing the right surf school : make sure that the instructors are qualified and that the school offers courses adapted to age and level.
2. Use appropriate equipment : foam board for beginners, suitable wetsuit and UV-protective lycra for young children.
3. Respect safety rules : never surf alone, always check the weather conditions and follow the advice of professionals.
4. Accept the natural progression : don't skip steps, every small victory is progress!
5. Keep the fun in mind : surfing is first and foremost about pleasure, so have fun and enjoy the ocean!

Conclusion

Surfing is a sport accessible to everyone, provided certain learning and safety steps are followed. Children can start very early, but it's recommended to wait until the age of 6 to take structured lessons. As for adults, it's never too late to get started! So, ready to catch your first wave?