Ready to head out the back? Top tips from other surf betties

We all know what it's like to paddle out the back for the first time. For some it's incredibly easy, for others, it's pretty scary. If you feel like you're ready to take the plunge but aren't sure where to start we've made a collection of tips from our surf community, gals only!

• Find a beach with the right conditions, almost no wind and super small waves. Find where the 'back' is (behind any sets that roll through) and make your way out there in between sets or through a rip - Jaz

• Make it a rule that you push yourself a teeny tiny bit each surf. As well as repeating an affirmation you believe in about safety. - Shelley

• Head out with girls only a little bit better than you. They'll encourage you and support you fully! - Caitlin

• Being out the back is less intense than being in the whitewash. Take yourself out the back and bob out there, don't bother to catch a wave, just get used to the movement of the waves and being in deeper water. - Renee

• Practice handling your board in still water, like a flat day or a lake. Practice sitting on the board, turning the board, changing direction and turtle rolling. It will give you more confidence and make you feel more comfortable in actual waves.

• Practice holding your breath, do breath work both in the water and out. "be a jellyfish and go with it, you'll always come back up".

We hope some of these tips will help you on your journey into deeper waters. If you're in doubt or doing it alone, we suggest signing up for a surf class or course! Having supportive people around you really makes a difference.