We haven’t had a Weekly Popup segment for a while, because honestly—I haven’t come across any brand-new, practical solutions to help us get our pop-ups better. Until now. A few
Weekly popup
Master the inevitable with the surf pop-up tips for beginners—learn techniques to stand up smoothly, improve balance, and catch waves confidently.
12Articles
Everyone who surfs with me or reads what I write about surfing knows I’m unhealthily obsessed with the pop-up. I strongly believe that if I could pop up quickly, I’d
Shakira was right. Hips don’t lie. Even the New York Times is talking big about hip mobility. And here I was thinking it’s only beneficial for a better pop-up. Off
Beginner surfers often overlook volume—but it’s the key to easier paddling, more wave catches, and a better pop-up. Learn how to calculate the right surfboard volume using the Guild Factor, and avoid the classic beginner mistakes.
Should you use your knees during a pop-up? We break down a surprisingly controversial take in beginner surf circles. We explore when it helps, when it hinders, and why it might not be as simple as “never use your knees.
Struggling with your pop-up? It might not be you—it might be your wetsuit or your board. In this episode, we break down how your gear could be sabotaging your surf progression (and how to fix it).
Here’s what I didn’t want to hear about popping up: You’re doing it wrong… because you’re not doing it enough. Argh. This week’s pop-up advice comes courtesy of our fellow
Struggling with your surf pop-up? It might be your eyes. Learn why looking forward—not down—is key to improving your pop-up, building confidence, and avoiding wipeouts.
Wondering if practicing your surf pop-up on land is actually helping? In this episode, we explore why popping up in the water is better—and how physics, muscle memory, and real surf conditions change everything.
Struggling with your pop-up? From the two-step to the chicken wing and explosive jump-up, we break down beginner surf pop-up techniques—and why none of them really work (at least not at first). Here's what to expect, what to avoid, and how to actually get better.
Physics. If it weren’t for physics, I (Zuz Wilson) would be a Girl Who Can Surf Super Good. But, as science would have it—and unless you’re one of our amazing
Is your pop-up failing because of lack of strength—or is it mental? Fear, hesitation, and pressure can hold you back just as much as weak paddling. Staying on your board feels safer, pulling back feels easier—but surfing is all about commitment. Here’s how to break through the mental block and finally stick your pop-up.
