Beginner Surfboard

[kyleisanoob12]

I went surfing for the first time on vacation about 2 weeks ago. I really liked it, and want to go back out in the water. Only problem is that I don't live near the ocean as I live in the Midwest (in the U.S.). I live on a lake, where I can do surfing conditioning such as swimming. I was thinking of getting a board so I can just paddle around my lake.

What kind of board should I get?

Also, is it bad for beginners to start out on shortboards?

[jaffa1949]

Forget the short board idea with your situation and limited real surf time. Each time between ocean outings you will go backwards inability to catch waves. Less waves = less progress ,

Paddling around your lake is a good idea on the board you eventually choose, but that will in no other way than just paddle strength help you on judging how to paddle for waves ( position timing match speed etc).
Read through the threads in this section and match what is being said about age weight, height and how that helps in choosing your board!

[Big H]

Check this out....if you are near the Great Lakes you might be closer to surf than you thought.....