 When
you think Newquay, you think surf. With all the snowboarders,
bikers, and skaters now playing in MK, I decided to take an
exciting trip with my brother to this popular surf resort. Young
or old, surfing is for the person who wants to use their energy
and lose themselves in thought. Newquay is not as far as you may
think - just 5 hours away by car.
We arrived just in time for
breakfast. The small cafes opening for the locals and tourists.
We ate a special from the menu board, a full juicy fry up for
£3.95. This is exactly what we needed to give us the energy for
the morning ahead.
The Escape Surf School is
opposite the lush beach of Towan and a 5 minute walk from the
famous Fiscal Beach. We were welcomed by Lynsey, a well
organised, friendly lady looking to show us a good time. ‘Style’
is the name of the game at this school which has been running
for 5 years now under a "dude" called Mike Young, I say “dude”
as he is the UK's top 5 surfers list - that's a dude in my
world. This was looking to be an exciting 2hrs with a
professional.
With the paperwork out of the
way it was time to enter the suite. No matter what shape, size
or build, the wet suite allows you to look like a hero for the
day. A story you just want to tell your nephews, little brothers
and sisters. But please try not to make the same mistake I did!
I  took my first step to heroism by placing my feet into the arm
sleeves and not the leg holes. How embarrassing.
Now for the warm up. Most
surfers participate in yoga in their spare time to loosen the
muscles and build strength. This also helps you to learn to
breath correctly. The first area - shoulders. Complete 30
shoulder rotations, forward and back and these will enable you
to warm the joints ready for the swimming. You must always
stretch the legs too as you will need to be able to crouch low
whilst on the board. The lower, the better.
We were given a brief on safety.
The basics "Protect your Melon" and neck. on a wipe out with
your arms and hands. You may ask what is a wipe out? My
answer…..falling off the board whilst in motion, its that
simple.
 Timing
the wave is essential. Just as it is about to brake behind you,
slide your self on the board and start paddling. As the wave
pushes you forward, place your hands flat on the board and slide
your knees up to your hands. Elevate your hands whilst putting
your left lead foot between your hands. This sounds easy but I
found this part difficult. I am certain the more relaxed and
agile you are, the better. I stupidly went for a run the day
before so felt sore and stiff. That's my excuse anyway. Next,
jump up slamming your back foot towards the back of the board
and turn your lead foot. Your feet should look like 5 to 1 on a
clock. Looking down, your knees should hide your feet, legs bent
and feeling centred. Your lead arm should be pointing the way
you want the board to go. Always raise your arms above shoulders
and position your back arm as if you were taking a lady in a
waltz. Your end position should look like a relaxed Ninja ready
for combat ooozing confidence.
The whole day was brilliant and
we had such a laugh. The staff certainly know how to show you a
good time and have a giggle.
There are always offers
available via The Escape Surf School where some deals offer you
the chance to surf and stay for just £49. Visit their website by
clicking here to find out more. |
