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Are you thrilled by any or some of the following scenes?
- Gigantic waves
- The deep blue ocean
- Stunning seascapes
- A ton of fresh air
- Beautiful beaches
Cardiovascular fitness. Before you reach the point where the big waves start, you can paddle using your arms and shoulders to get there. This gives you a great workout. In addition, arm paddling adds variety to your cardiovascular routine. Unlike running on a treadmill or biking where you predominantly use your lower extremities, you use your arms a lot in surfing. This type of cardio increases your upper body strength and develops the muscles in your chest, back, core (abdominals and lower back muscles), arms and forearms.
Release stress for real. If you’re experiencing a lot of stress at work or at home, surfing provides an avenue for you to release your stress for real. You can momentarily forget your problems while you’re way out there conquering those waves. You can improve your focus and presence of mind. Well, you have to stay focused mate, because if you don’t, you might get pinned down by the waves. You don’t have time to feel stress, you just capture the moment and get absorbed.
Feel cool despite the hot weather. Don’t mind the heat during summer months. Immerse yourself in the experience and the cool water. Just remember to protect yourself from the sun as it can burn you even faster when it reflects off the water.
Absorb all the negative ions you want. The earth’s bodies of water are the biggest reservoirs of negative ions. These negative ions boost your mood and make you feel good. More importantly, they help to increase blood flow to your brain which means your brain cells receive larger amounts of oxygen. This makes you more alert and less lethargic to external stimuli. The best case scenario for a surfer!
Surfing isn’t easy. I’m not saying that to discourage you. It takes desire and determination to learn how to ride the waves. Find the right equipment and surfing spot for your level and start out with lessons from a good teacher. Once you have the basics you just need to get out and practice. Lastly, make sure you become familiar with surfing etiquettes so that you’ll get along with other, more experienced surfers. Once you get the hang of it, the waves are yours to conquer. Surf’s up mate! Go find your perfect wave!
Related Links
References
- http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Surfing
- http://www.surfinghandbook.com/health-benefits-of-surfing.html
- http://www.healthfitnessrevolution.com/the-health-benefits-of-surfing/
- Negative ions for your brain:
- Howard, P. J. (2006). The owner's manual for the brain: everyday applications from mind-brain research (3rd Ed.). Austin, Tex.: Bard Press.
- Power, C. (2012). Surf travel: the complete guide. Newquay: Orca.
- Snyder, R. (2003). Fit to surf: the surfer's guide to strength and conditioning. Camden, Me.: Ragged Mountain Press/McGraw-Hill.
- Hall, J. E. (2011). Guyton and Hall textbook of medical physiology (12th Ed.). Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders/Elsevie
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