Lesson 022 — Going Left or Right
🎓 Learn to Surf UK Academy
🎯 Today's Mission
Learn how to choose left or right before take-off and commit to travelling along the wave.
✅ This lesson is for you if...
You can catch small green waves but often end up going straight.
You aren't sure whether to go left or right.
📚 In This Lesson You'll Learn
- How to spot the left and right shoulder.
- How your body position affects direction.
- Why committing early makes take-offs easier.
- How to avoid crossing into another surfer's path.
Left or Right?
When a wave begins to peel, it creates a choice. The wave may open to your left, your right, or occasionally both directions. Your job is to recognise which shoulder is offering the better line.
For beginners, the easiest option is usually the direction with the longer, slower and more open shoulder.
👀 Look first
Before you paddle hard, glance down the line. If the wave is clearly breaking towards your left, prepare to travel left. If the shoulder is open on your right, prepare to travel right.
🏄 Bob Gnarly Tip
Make your decision early. A clear decision gives your body time to turn the board. Hesitating often leaves you standing straight up while the wave runs away.
How Your Body Helps
Once you're up, your head and shoulders should point towards the direction you want to travel. Your feet follow the movement, while gentle pressure through your front and back foot helps control the board.
💡 Did You Know?
Many beginner wipeouts aren't caused by a lack of balance. They're caused by looking in the wrong direction or trying to stand up while the board is still pointed straight towards shore.
⚠️ Common Beginner Mistake
Changing direction halfway through a take-off because you suddenly see another surfer. Choose your line before taking off and always give other surfers plenty of space.
🌊 UK Surf Tip
If you're unsure which way a wave is going, watch two or three waves from the beach first. UK beach breaks can change quickly with the tide, so the best direction can change during a session.
🌊 One Final Wave…
A good surfer doesn't simply catch a wave. They make a decision about where that wave is going to take them.
📚 Lesson Summary
- ✅ Read the shoulder before take-off.
- ✅ Choose the longer, gentler line where possible.
- ✅ Look and point your body towards your chosen direction.
- ✅ Give other surfers plenty of space.
🎉 Lesson Complete!
You've completed Lesson 022 — Going Left or Right.
Next: Your First Turns.
Start Lesson 023 →