1.WRONG TIMING

Let me tell you something. Most of the times when I see people failing a take off is because they don´t paddle the wave in the right time.

I see a lot of surfers waiting until the wave is almost over them to start paddling. If you see a wave coming and you want to catch it, first of all look at the wave and approach it paddling against the wave (do not wait sitting on your board until the wave approaches you).

Once you are in control of the situation and you have this advantage it is time to paddle hard and stand up just right before the wave starts to break.

2. YOU ARE NOT LOOKING AT THE WALL

When you are paddling a wave you need to look at the wall of the wave. If you look down you will go down, if you don´t look anywhere you totally lose control. Look exactly where you want to go next and you will see a lot of progress.

3. YOU ARE HOLDING YOUR BOARD

If you hold the rails of your board while taking off you will lose precious time and you will always stand up late.

If the wave is not very steady, you will hold the board longer instead of standing up completely and start riding.

So never hold the rails for a pop up. Place your hands on the board, stand up quick and start riding the wave as soon as possible.