How to Do Your First Pop-Up on a Surfboard (Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners)

Your First Pop-Up: The Moment Everything Clicks
There’s a magic moment every surfer remembers — the first time you stand up on a wave. That split second when everything works, and you feel the glide. But before you ride, you’ve got to master one of the most essential surf skills: the pop-up.
Whether you’re just starting or preparing for your first surf lesson, this guide breaks down exactly how to nail your first pop-up with confidence and style.

What is a Pop-Up in Surfing?
The pop-up is the movement that takes you from lying down on your board to standing up and riding the wave. It’s quick, it’s powerful, and it happens in one smooth motion. Think of it as a fast push-up followed by jumping into a stable stance.

Why the Pop-Up Matters
If your pop-up is solid, everything else becomes easier: balance, control, speed, and turning. A poor pop-up, on the other hand, can leave you off-balance or falling before the ride even begins. Master this move, and you’re already halfway to becoming a surfer.

How to Do a Pop-Up on Land (Practice First!)
Before you ever try it in the water, practice on the beach — or even better, at home on a yoga mat or towel.
Step-by-Step Pop-Up Technique for Beginners:
1. Lie on the board
Position yourself with your chest just above the midpoint of the board. Feet together, hands flat under your chest (like a push-up position).

2. Paddle, paddle, paddle… and commit
As the wave picks you up, give a few strong paddles. When you feel the momentum, it’s time to pop up — don’t hesitate!

3. Push up with your hands
Press your hands into the board next to your ribs. Lift your upper body in one smooth movement — avoid using your knees.

4. Pop your front foot forward
In one explosive motion, bring your front foot between your hands. Your back foot follows and lands flat on the board.

5. Find your stance
Keep your knees bent, arms relaxed, and eyes looking forward — not down at your feet.

6. Stay low and centered
Balance is key. Weight evenly distributed, core engaged, and body facing slightly sideways.

Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
❌ Using your knees to stand up – this slows you down and kills your balance
❌ Looking down – always keep your eyes on where you’re going
❌ Standing too straight – stay low and athletic
❌ Wrong foot forward – make sure you know if you’re regular (left foot forward) or goofy (right foot forward)

Practice = Progress
The more you practice your pop-up on land, the more natural it will feel in the water. Repetition builds muscle memory, and muscle memory builds confidence. Aim for 10–15 pop-ups a day before your surf trip or lesson — it really makes a difference.

Learn the Pop-Up with Us
At Guincho Surf Shop & School, our instructors break the pop-up down for every student. We give you personalized tips, help you improve with real-time feedback, and make sure you’re learning safely and confidently. Whether it’s your first time or you’re struggling to stand up consistently, we’re here to help you get it right.

Final Tip
Don’t stress if you don’t get it on your first try. Surfing is all about patience, practice, and having fun in the process. The ocean teaches you more with every wave.