How Do I Reach the Next Level?

[Beachbum]

Do professional surfers get free lessons from Poseidon? I always feel discouraged after watching in awe, as professionals rip along waves on Youtube. I have been surfing for a while, and I'm not nearly as powerful or fluid as they are on a board. What can I do out of the water to better my performance each time that I am able to go out? I've stumbled into a hole, and I can't find an edge.

[surferdude_scarborough]

Don't worry about the pros. Most of them grew up by the beach and started surfing as soon as they could walk. As long as you are having fun and making progress its all good. Try thinking back a year to what kind of waves you were surfing and what you are comfortable in now.

oh n here comes the cliche: The best surfer is the one having the most fun.

[garbarrage]

Don't worry about the pros. Most of them grew up by the beach and started surfing as soon as they could walk. As long as you are having fun and making progress its all good. Try thinking back a year to what kind of waves you were surfing and what you are comfortable in now.

oh n here comes the cliche: The best surfer is the one having the most fun.

What he said

[mantaray]

anyone know of stories where someone started surfing late, and went pro? im curious

[billie_morini]

This might help:
http://www.nextlevelguitar.com/

Oops, sorry! That's for next level guitar. I should have read your original post more carefully.

[parrysurf]

Yeah, time = progression.
Most pros are talented, gifted and struck deals with the devil to get where they are!
And have been in the water from birth.
Take a look at your equipment as well, I see many guys with a "pro style" shape, and it is only holding them back. If you board is to small for you, you will be struggling to keep it on plane...the pros are nimble and light on their feet. If you are catching rails and not flowing down the line, I would recommend trying a board with some more volume...wider, thicker, wider nose...all these things will keep you on plane and get you there faster.
It may not be the coolest shape, but if you are ripping it you wont care.
Keep the stoke!