Enabling Children to Experience 'Standing Up for the First Time' in the Pool: Japan Surfing Federation Establishes Surfing Education Program That Inspires Kids to Take on Challenges

The Japan Surfing Federation (NSA), a nonprofit public interest corporation, has announced the establishment of a structured surfing education program for children using swimming pools, following approximately eight years of practical implementation. Designed so that even children with no prior surfing experience can safely achieve the successful experience of 'standing on a board,' this program is gaining attention as a new model for sports and community-based education.

Background: The Challenge of Sustaining Initial Interest

While surfing is an attractive sport, many beginners drop out after their first experience due to fear of the ocean, frustration from failing to stand up, or physical discomfort such as sunburn or exposure to seawater.

Solution: Delivering 'Success First'

To address this issue, NSA focused on surfing experiences in swimming pools. By offering a safe, wave-free environment where children can first experience the joy and confidence of standing up on a board, the program successfully lowers the psychological barriers to surfing.

Educational Features: 'Teaching Without Instruction'

The program's greatest strength lies in its approach, which differs from conventional sports coaching:

・ Avoids technical surfing terminology

・ Encourages intuitive understanding

・ Prioritizes fun above all else

Using tools such as balance mats and simple training aids, the program is carefully designed to help children develop a physical sense of balance through direct experience.

Foundational Philosophy: The Legacy of Doji Izaka

The program is built upon the philosophy of Mr. Yoshihiko Izaka (known as 'Doji Izaka'), winner of the 4th All Japan Surfing Championships Men's Division and pioneer of Japan's first year-round beach community, 'Beach Club,' which he expanded nationwide. A legendary figure in Japanese surfing history for his contributions to both competitive and popular aspects of the sport, Izaka has spent 70 years exploring 'how to enjoy surfing,' developing the concept of 'surfing for everyone' based on his insights. NSA has inherited this philosophy and developed the program under the guiding principle of 'transforming a difficult sport into one that anyone can enjoy.'

'Surfing is a challenging sport. But if children can experience that initial success of standing up on the board, they will be motivated to continue on their own. We believe there is great value in creating that 'zero to one' moment.'

— Norihiko Uchino, Chairman of NSA Education Committee

Educational Value

Beyond being a simple sports experience, the program has demonstrated the following educational benefits:

・ Enhanced self-esteem

・ Development of physical awareness

・ Cultivation of willingness to take on challenges

In particular, it helps address modern children's lack of physical activity by improving essential but often underdeveloped abilities such as 'sense of balance' and 'body awareness.'

Social Significance and Future Development

・ Expanding opportunities for sports participation

・ Rebuilding connections between communities and the ocean

・ Broadening the base of surfing culture

The program is beginning to be introduced into school curricula through collaborations with educational institutions and local governments. NSA plans to expand the program by strengthening partnerships with prefectural boards of education, supporting integration into school lessons, and linking it with regional sports promotion initiatives. Ultimately, the goal is to popularize this model as a way for children—even in inland areas without access to the sea—to experience surfing.

For More Information

・ NSA Services: Introduction to Pool-Based Surfing Education Program

・ Report: 'First-Time Experience' Surfing Sports Challenge Presented by ENEOS

Inquiries

Japan Surfing Federation (NSA)

Contact: Miyazaki

E-mail: info@nsa-surf.org

HP: https://www.nsa-surf.org/