SUP Surfing Tips from Paiwen Girl, Tim Mei

We decided to catch up with Tim Mei, Paiwen Girl and Taiwanese SUP Surfer, for a few SUP surfing tips from the pro herself!

Born and raised in Taiwan, Tim Mei has been surfing for over 10 years, an interest that
was inspired by her love of long boarding. She started competing in local Taiwan surf competitions, and has since pursued her dream of surfing internationally.

Coming from a traditional Taiwanese family background, Tim Mei has fought 
hard to follow her ambitious dream, and with help from her family and friends, has achieved solid success in her chosen path in life. 

Paiwen: Can you give us three tips for people who are new to SUP surfing?

Tim Mei: 

1) Pick the right gear for you and use it properly!
2) Practice makes perfect. Start in a clam water, practice basics until you feel comfortable.
3) Fall off your board the right way, like a starfish, and make sure you clear the board - safety first. Do not dive head first!

Paiwen: In Stand Up Paddling, as in any sport, there are often common mistakes that you see newer SUP surfers make - what are these, and what is your suggestion for correcting these mistake? 

TM: Here are the three most common mistakes I see: 

1) People who go out without a lesson! It’s always better if you learn things from experts or experienced people because they will teach you the right way of doing it. So my first suggestion is to take a lesson rather than going in blind.

2) Keeping your eye on the board. Instead of looking at your board, look where you want to go - this will help you balance while you ride the wave. 

3) People who don't respect others in the surf. Always stay out of the way and take turns. If you don’t want someone to get in your way while you are riding a wave, then don’t get in their way either! Bottom line: share the ocean! For more on surfing etiquette, check out Surfline’s Bill of Left and Rights.

Happy SUP surfing, from the Paiwen family!