When you take off on a wave, do you start off in parallel stance or the regular surfer stance?

I usually start parallel and if the wave seems like it’s going to be too steep, I switch (or jump or flail) into surfer stance.

When this question was posed on Stand Up Zone, here’s how the dialogue unfolded:

I got out for the first time on my new SUP In the waves this weekend(11’6" naish). I was wondering if most people stay in a parallel stance as they catch a wave or step back right before they catch the wave? Also does anyone step forward as they catch the wave to get the board onto the wave? It seemed like I did the best by sliding my front foot forward about 6" as I paddled for the wave. For a little better front to back balance and to start to drop into the wave. Then as soon as the board started to slide take a step back with my back foot into surf stance.

Parallel stance if catching the wave early and move forward if need more push to get into the wave. Surfer stance when catching the wave later. Step towards the tail if later take off and forward if going earlier. Practice either because everyone has a different preference and the conditions in the surf may very.
Usualy surfing stance but I paddle better on the right side so i catch the wave with a regular foot surfing stance and i surf with a goofy foot stance so I have to switch foot and paddle.

Sometimes i go for parallel stance to improve the style "easy take off"
. Personally, I am 50/50 surf/parallel stance when getting in early but I definitely go to surf stance when taking off late. Surf stance requires more practice time and balance but is well worth learning.

Also, there is NOTHING wrong with falling and "kooking" on LOTS waves, regardless of surf background. We all did the same! However, just make sure you are well clear of other surfers. I spend a month just practicing in flat water and then when I was ready to surf I spent LOTS of time (at least 20 sessions) at full on beginner spots. With 40 year surfing experience I had to swallow my pride….lol……but the time spent learning the right way has allowed me to work my way up to the better surf spots without any problems.

Sadly many have not taken that advice and the backlash from prone surfers is getting downright ugly. I fear we will hit boiling point this summer. We have an fantastic opportunity to grow this sport in positive direction, but that only happen if we POLICE OURSELVES and practice what we preach.