i do not profess to be anysort of pro surfer or anything but i do it the way they told me in lessons and it seams to work well enough for me. i use my toes when i pop up as it gives you more spring but it depends on the wave. also in terms of your hands i find its more effective to put them flat on the board rather than on the rails as your less likely to slip off, however keep your hands on the rails till the last minute to help control the board. i recommend checking out website on the internet, theres loads of learning to surf and theyll know more than me
James