Pop Up
A "Pop Up" is the fundamental move in surfing where a person goes from lying on their stomach (paddling position) to standing up on the surfboard. It's one of the most essential skills taught in surf instruction, comparable to learning to walk before running. When someone mentions "pop up" in a surfing resume or job description, they're referring to their ability to either perform or teach this crucial transition movement. This skill is also sometimes called "getting to your feet" or "pop-up technique" in more casual terms.
Examples in Resumes
Specialized in teaching Pop Up technique to complete beginners
Developed modified Pop Up methods for students with limited mobility
Created instructional videos demonstrating proper Pop Up mechanics for online courses
Typical job title: "Surf Instructors"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Surf Instructors
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you adapt pop-up teaching methods for different student abilities and body types?
Expected Answer: A senior instructor should discuss various teaching modifications, safety considerations, and how they've developed different approaches based on student needs, including working with children, older adults, or people with physical limitations.
Q: What's your method for correcting common pop-up mistakes in group settings?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of group management while providing individual attention, efficient correction techniques, and ability to spot and fix multiple common mistakes simultaneously.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the most common pop-up mistakes you see with beginners?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify typical beginner errors like knee-first popping up, wrong foot placement, or pushing up too slowly, and explain how they address these issues.
Q: How do you teach pop-ups in different wave conditions?
Expected Answer: Should explain how they adjust teaching methods based on wave size, speed, and water conditions, demonstrating understanding of safety and progression.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you break down the basic steps of teaching a pop-up to a first-time surfer?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the fundamental steps clearly, including proper positioning on the board, hand placement, and the basic movement sequence.
Q: What safety considerations do you keep in mind when teaching pop-ups?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic safety aspects like appropriate water depth, distance from other surfers, and proper falling techniques.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic pop-up demonstration ability
- Teaching fundamentals to beginners
- Basic water safety knowledge
- Simple correction techniques
Mid (2-4 years)
- Advanced pop-up variations
- Group instruction methods
- Adaptation for different skill levels
- Wave condition assessment
Senior (5+ years)
- Custom teaching methodology development
- Advanced correction techniques
- Program development
- Instructor training capabilities
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to demonstrate proper pop-up technique themselves
- Lack of water safety knowledge
- No experience teaching beginners
- Poor communication skills
- No formal surf instruction certification
Related Terms
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