At Peña Txuri Surf Eskola, we see people every day who are eager to reach the peak… and in a hurry. But let’s be clear: before reaching the peak, you need to know how to be in the water. It’s not just about paddling and positioning yourself. It’s a matter of respect, technique, observation, and a lot of prior practice.
Here we share everything we believe you should master before venturing to that magical point where the best waves are fought for. Because the peak is not just a place, it’s a responsibility.
- Choose your board wisely: your ally or your worst enemy
One of the main sources of frustration for beginner surfers is using a board that’s not right for them. Too short, too narrow, not enough volume… Result: you don’t catch waves, you get tired quickly, and you unintentionally get in the way.
🟦 School tip: if you’re just starting out, the ideal is a stable board with generous volume. Softboards or evolutives are our favorites for the learning phase. There will be time to “reduce inches” when you really have control.
- Control your board (and never let it go)
Before reaching the peak, you need to learn to handle the board at all times. It’s not just about surfing waves, but knowing how to react between sets. Many beginners let go of the board when a wave comes… and that’s a danger to you and others.
🟦 At Peña Txuri we always repeat: the board is never let go. Learn to duck dive or “roll”, depending on the type of board, but never leave it adrift.
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3. Reading waves: eyes before arms
Knowing which wave to paddle for, where to position yourself, how the set moves… that’s reading the sea. In the first sessions, we tell you. But gradually, it’s something you should develop.
🟦 Observe before entering. Look at where it breaks, where there’s a channel, where experienced surfers position themselves. That will save you a lot of energy… and some unnecessary wipeouts.
4. Paddle efficiently: it’s not about strength
Many want to reach the peak paddling like crazy, but end up exhausted in the first set. Paddling well is not about brute force, but technique, rhythm, and breath control.
🟦 Practice the take-off from the foam, master body position on the board, and build physical endurance. In our courses, we teach you how to paddle efficiently, without burning out before getting to the action.
- Know how to wait (and not get in the way)
This point is key: the peak is an area of action and also of coexistence. You can’t just plant yourself there without knowing how priority works or without having control over your board. It can be dangerous and frustrating for you and other surfers.
🟦 At Peña Txuri, we teach from respect. Start by catching foam and soft waves. Observe, learn, and gradually you’ll earn your place at the peak. There are no shortcuts.
6. Perfect technique and find your style
Surfing is not just technique, it’s also expression. But before flowing with your own style, you need to master the basics: the take-off, balance, the bottom turn… and above all, consistency.
🟦 Each session in the foam is an investment for your future surfing. Many of those who shine at the peak today started by spending entire weeks just with foam, working on the foundation.
7. Learn to enjoy the process
Yes, the peak is the goal… but not the only one. Learning to surf is a long journey, full of small victories. Every well-caught wave, every well-done paddle, every time you stay on your feet longer: that’s already surfing.
🟦 At Peña Txuri we always say the same thing: don’t rush to reach the peak, train so that when you get there, you’re prepared. Because the best thing is not to arrive quickly, it’s to arrive well.
Conclusion: respect and preparation come first
Reaching the peak without preparation will not only serve you no purpose, but it can harm you and hinder others. At Peña Txuri Surf Eskola, we believe that surfing well also means knowing when and where to surf.
If you’re in the process of learning, enjoy it. Catch foam, do drills, listen to your instructors. And when you’re ready, I assure you that the peak will welcome you with open arms… and with memorable waves.
🌊 See you in the water, step by step, with a good attitude and lots of real surfing!