If you are looking for ways to become a surf instructor, there are several elements that must consider. Whether you have surfing experience or you love spending time at the beach, you need to be qualified so that you can turn the beach into your office.
Things You Need to Know to Become a Surf Instructor
If you are looking for ways to become a surf instructor, several elements must consider. Whether you have surfing experience or you love spending time at the beach, you need to be qualified so that you can turn the beach into your office.
Now that you have decided to become a surf instructor, you need to be recognized by the ISA Surf Coaching and Instructing Educational Program. This program is internationally recognized so getting certified by them will ensure that you get a job easily or even start your own business.
Being a surf instructor is not an easy task but it is quite rewarding. So before you step into your career choice you must do your research well and understand this exciting water sport. Ombe is one great surfing site that provides everything you need to know for the surfing enthusiast out there. From learning the sport to perfecting surf techniques to podcasts by professional surfers, check them out.
Skill Level
One of the biggest concerns for people who are interested in this career is how much skill level is required for them to teach. Well, surprisingly you need to have great skills to become a teacher but you need to have at least some kind of surfing experience. It is probably the most obvious point but a necessity as it will be evaluated in your certification course. Some of the basic beginner level skills required are:
- Paddling
- Kick out of the wave
- Duck dive
- Surf unbroken waves
- Top and bottom turn
- Wave negotiation
- Exit at the back of the wave
- Get back to shore with ease
By perfecting these skills you will easily get a level one surf experience so that you can become an efficient surf instructor.
Certification
Many surf instructors do not have any certification and it is not mandatory. But it sure adds value to your credentials. No matter how experienced you are in the water, a surfing certification will definitely boost your career and add weight to your resume. The most common certificate that is easiest achieve is the ISA Level 1.
While you are focused on getting your surf certification, you can also opt for a lifesaving certification course. This course teaches you on specific skills that enhance your surfing experience such as reading wave patterns, understanding the climate, and so on.
During your course, you will be judged on your physical as well as theory test. So while you are reading and preparing for your test, make sure that you spend time on water as well.
How Long Will it Take?
Most surf instructor courses have a time period of week and you can even complete them within the week. Keep in mind that everyone learns at their own pace but most people want to get it done as quick as possible. Along with your surf course, you can even complete your lifesaver course in a week as well.
You will also need a 20 hour of supervised coaching that will help you build a great foundation in your course. The easiest way to get your certification done is by finding surf schools or programs. Some of them will even allow you take the ISA course and the lifesaving course together or separately.
How Much is the Pay?
When it comes to the pay of being a surf instructor it won’t give you a lot of money. Now this does not mean that you will struggle in life but you will have many benefits. The beach lifestyles is very exciting as you will get to visit the beach everyday.
Like any other career it is important that you do your research and plan your surf career well. If you are planning to start your own surf shop it is important that you choose the right location. The right surf spot will not only help you attract more people but also bring in more revenue. 
Keep in mind that there are many surf schools out there so starting your school can bring a lot of stiff competition. If you choose to work under these already established schools that will also benefit your career. So consider every element before you choose to become a surf instructor.
Your Takeaway
Before you get your surf instructor certification you must have all the necessary surf gear. Having the beach as your office sounds like a great deal but for you to be successful you need to be proactive, diligent, and be good at networking on different platforms.
