Surf Coaching
Clarity on a Misused Term
The term “surf coaching” has become a catch-all label, often used for services that don’t reflect its true meaning. Many surf schools, instructors, and so-called “coaches” can’t clearly explain the difference between a surf lesson, a coaching session, a surf course, or a cycle of progressive coaching.
Just as there used to be distinctions between surf animators, initiators, instructors, and trainers, there is now a clear difference between a surf coach and a surf instructor or initiator. “Surf Coach” is not the English translation of “moniteur de surf”, it’s closer to “trainer” or “mentor.” There’s a real distinction between a classic surf lesson or a beginner’s course and a structured, progressive surf coaching cycle — previously referred to as “passion surf camps.” Even within classic surf camps, a “passion” camp implies much more than a basic learning format.
The main difference lies in the technical and teaching skills of the coach, and especially in the commitment to quality over profitability — individualized formats or small group coaching are less profitable but far more effective.
Surf lessons combine theoretical, technical, physical, and mental guidance—delivered in a personalized and educational way—both on the sand and in the water. A typical lesson is structured as follows:
- Interactive reading of weather and wave conditions, identification of the surf zone and movement paths
- Distribution of equipment
- Theoretical foundations, personalized instructions, and technical advice
- Appropriate warm-up
- Accompanied session with exercises and short breaks on the shore to rest and/or work on posture, movement, revisit a technical point, or observe changes in the surf zone
- End-of-session debrief and return of equipment
