Surfing is often described as one of the most rewarding sports—but it’s also one of the most challenging. Progress can feel slow, and it’s easy to get frustrated when you don’t see immediate results. But every surfer, no matter their level, has been through this. The key to improvement lies in understanding the process, trusting that progress is happening even when it’s not obvious, and celebrating the small wins that move you forward.
Why Surfing Progress Feels Slow
To improve in surfing, and in any other sport, repetition is crucial. Each time you practice a movement, your brain strengthens the neural pathways associated with that action. These pathways are like trails in a forest—the more you use them, the clearer and faster they become. Over time, movements that once felt awkward or difficult start to feel natural. This is how we improve coordination, and enhance physical capabilities like balance, strength, and reaction time.
However, in surfing, it’s difficult to get consistent repetition. Unlike other sports where you can drill the same move repeatedly, the ocean is unpredictable. Wave conditions vary, and the opportunities to practice specific skills during a session are limited. This means it takes longer for those neural pathways to develop and for movements to become automatic.
On top of this, the path to becoming a better surfer is a long one. There are countless elements to learn—paddling, popping up, wave selection, positioning, and so much more. It’s easy to look at the big picture and feel like you’re not making progress. But if you zoom in and focus on the smaller steps, you’ll start to see how far you’ve come.
Focus on Small Wins
Recognizing small wins is key to building confidence and staying motivated. Progress isn’t just about big breakthroughs; it’s about the little improvements that happen session by session. Did you paddle stronger today? Stay calmer under a wave? Stand up on a wave that challenged you? These are all signs of progress.
Focusing on small wins also shifts your mindset. If you only think about mistakes, you miss the good things you’re doing. Taking time to acknowledge what’s working helps you build the confidence needed to keep pushing forward.
Trust the Process
Surfing progression isn’t about instant results—it’s about building something that lasts. The key is to embrace the journey and understand that progress is rarely a straight line.
Think of it like laying bricks for a solid foundation. Each session, every wave, and even the wipeouts are part of the construction. On some days, it might feel like you’re only laying a single brick—or worse, like one has crumbled. But over time, those bricks come together to form something strong and enduring.
The process involves patience and persistence. Improvement requires more than just effort; it’s about being intentional with your practice. Focus on one thing at a time. Give it your full attention, repeat it until it feels natural, and then move on to the next. You don’t need to conquer everything in one session.
Trust also comes from understanding that every effort counts. Even the frustrating days, where nothing seems to go right, are part of your growth. They teach resilience, patience, and adaptability—qualities that are as essential to surfing as physical skill.
Finally, allow yourself to enjoy the ride. Progress isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the experiences and lessons along the way. The process is what makes surfing so rewarding. Trust that with each session, you’re becoming a better, stronger, and more confident surfer.
How to Celebrate Your Wins
Celebrating your wins is just as important as putting in the work. Recognizing your progress keeps you motivated and gives you the confidence to keep pushing forward.
Set Goals
Goals give you something to aim for and a way to measure your progress. It’s important to set long-term goals, like mastering a specific maneuver, as well as short-term goals for each session. These short-term goals don’t always need to focus on technique—they can be anything that challenges you and helps you grow.
For example:
Paddling out to the lineup on a difficult day.
Improving the intensity of your paddling.
Exploring a new surf spot.
Supporting a friend in the water.
Make sure your goals are achievable but still push you slightly out of your comfort zone. This balance helps you build confidence while staying engaged.
Keep a Surf Journal
After each session, write down what went well. It could be as small as feeling more balanced or trying something new. Over time, these notes will show you how far you’ve come and remind you that progress is happening.
Share Your Wins
Talk about your progress with friends, your coach, or the backYARD community. Sharing your successes—no matter how small—not only reinforces your own confidence but also inspires others.
Reward Yourself
Celebrate your milestones, even the modest ones. Whether it’s treating yourself to your favorite snack or taking a moment to reflect on your achievements, rewarding yourself helps you stay positive and motivated.
Take it Step by Step
Surfing progress may feel slow, but it’s happening. Every paddle, every wave, and every effort you make contributes to your growth. By focusing on small wins, celebrating what you’re doing well, and trusting the process, you can keep moving forward, even when the progress feels invisible.
What small win did you achieve today? Reflect on it, share it, and use it as motivation for your next session. Surfing is a journey—step by step, wave by wave, you’re getting there.
