Surfing can be a great form of recreation, exercise, and outright fun! But where do you begin? That is the question.

For starters, you need to realize surfing is a sport that requires a little more energy than many other forms of recreation. First things first you will want to be able to swim. In fact you should have the endurance to swim at least 50 meters (about 55 yards) successfully anytime you are surfing. This way regardless, you will probably have what it takes to get back to shore in the worst case scenario.

You will need to purchase some gear. There are several types of surfboards that will get you started well, including the custom surfboard, soft surfboard, and the molded surfboard. You will also need a surfboard leash which attaches your surfboard to your ankle, and keeps it close enough if you wipeout (and from hitting others). Remember, your surfboard is also your personal floatation device. Also, if you surf colder waters, or where there are heavy corals, you will surely need a wetsuit as well.

As far as the surfboard goes, you will want one that is 18 inches or wider, 2.5 inches thick or thicker, and about 18 inches longer than you are tall. You want to be sure that where your surfboard leash attaches at the back is solid, and that the fins are tight. Instructors can better direct you on what is best when you are beginning, and eventually you will know exactly what you prefer and why. These are just general guidelines to get you started.

Before surfing, you will need at least a lesson from a good surf instructor. These will include paddling out, respecting others space, catching the wave, and breaking the surf among many others. There will also be a number or rules to understand that will apply at numerous surfing hotspots. They are there to keep the sport safe for everyone. Remember, while surfing can be a blast, and fun for everyone, just like anything else, there are dangers as well. The rules are there to keep it as safe as possible. Lessons can get you invaluable information that will keep the sport great for you for a lifetime, and help you avoid mistakes that others have learned from the hard way.

One definite life saving thing to keep in mind is never mix drugs/alcohol with surfing as they wear away at your endurance, and might leave you dead in the water, literally. You should also refrain from surfing right after eating. Rest and let the meal digest, then surf.

In the end, you will find surfing to be challenging, fun, and definitely more than a run in the park. Just be safe at it, and be sure to learn it all the best ways you can find.

To read more articles by Tony Robinson, check out http://your-families-health.com