To surf you need to be able to paddle out and catch a wave. If your paddling is strong then you can get out around (or if necessary through) the white-water, you can catch waves and you can keep out of the way of the other surfers. Most importantly of all, you’ll feel more confident and a great deal safer. If you cant paddle you cant surf, it really is that simple.

Related posts:

1. Learning to Surf: All about the “Paddle”
2. Ask a Surfer: Do I Paddle with My Back Arched?
3. Learning to Surf: A Beginner’s Guide (part 1)
4. Learning to Surf, A Primer
5. Learning to Surf: A Beginner’s Guide (part 2)
6. 3 Quick Exercises for Powerful Surf Sessions
7. My Take: Learning to Surf on Your Own