> ASK experienced foilers in your area about best equipment and breaks for learning: they will have already been through the learning process so will give you the shortcut download.
> Always WEAR A HELMET, impact vest and leash.
> Learn on a LARGER, LOWER ASPECT FOIL, not a small performance foil. It will be more stable, slower, and generally more forgiving.
> Learn on a SHORTER MAST (around 65-68cm). This will allow you to foil in smaller waves and shallower water. You’ll also have less distance to fall!
> AVOID BUSY LINEUPS and/or at peak times & don’t just paddle out at the beach you normally surf at. You’re looking for a mushy, fat, 1-2ft wave that you would never bother surfing.
> The main goal of starting out is to avoid breaching (the foil flying out the water). Use enough FRONT FOOT PRESSURE to keep the foil low in the water and under control.
> When things go wrong (and they will) try to EJECT OFF THE REAR OF THE BOARD - you are less likely to hit the foil.
The natural reaction when things go south is to try to correct, but this will almost always make things worse and can be dangerous -
EJECT DON'T CORRECT!
> STAY LOW for ultimate control. Don't be tempted to stand up tall, crouching and staying low will keep your centre of gravity low allowing you to control your board and foil far easier.
> DON'T TAKE OFF ON A WAVE IF THERE IS SOMEONE INSIDE you in a potential path that your foil may take.
> LEARN TO SURF and/or UNDERSTAND SURF ETIQUETTE prior to learning to foil, especially if you come from a wind/kite background
> BE PATIENT: the early sessions can be pretty brutal and hard work, often with
seemingly no progression. You will improve, just take your time and don’t be
too hard on yourself.
> ENJOY THE JOURNEY, be respectful to others and have fun!
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