Lessons are helpful. Swimming regularly and building arm endurance is important. Starting on an 8' soft top is useful. Going where the waves are big enough t

Lessons are helpful. Swimming regularly and building arm endurance is important. Starting on an 8' soft top is useful. Going where the waves are big enough to ride but not big enough to scare the crap out of you is vital. Learning to not panic when you wipe out and get water shot up your nose and a mouthful of seawater is mandatory.