Popping UP !

you probably find it easier if you got a bigger boArd. something at least 7 or 8 feet. you would really notice a difference. what you are on now is way too small to be learning on especially if you.'re still working on pop ups

 

Yeah, I recall trying to learn to surf on a 6'8" board myself when I was 16 in Ocean City. I spent all day frustrated beyond belief. All I could do is get to one knee then fall over. A year later I went to take a lesson in Delaware and used a 9 or 10 foot long board. With the instructors tips (and he was out in the water with me at the time) I was able to stand up on my first try on the longer board.

 

Keep in mind that if you place your hands at your chest, you will not have the mechanical advantage to pull your legs up under you than compared to your hands lower towards your waist. You can test this on dry land ... do a push up from your knees (not your feet, they will be hanging off the back of the board, so they can't provide a push-off point like they do on land), and notice how you're having to drag your knees up in order to get them under your body. Now try the same push up, but lower by placing your hands near your waist-line. Now you'll notice you can easily swing your knees up under your body as-if it's a natural pivot point for your center of gravity.

 

Rent a 9 foot soft top board for a day . You will catch waves easily and have the thrill of the ride. Then either buy it or go back to struggling with your short board. At least a day on the longboard helps you know what you are after!