Cross Training
This chilly winter has left a lot of surfers less motivated to paddle out, especially with a lackluster forecast so far for waves. While many will travel to surf, others will tough it out here in their 5/4 suits, booties, and gloves. No matter where you go and what you do, it is always optimal to cross train and vary your fitness, and winter is a great time to do so.
Surf travel automatically allows you to change it up. Maybe you rent a new board, surf a unique break, choose a place with additional activities along with surfing. Try to take advantage of wherever you are; hiking, biking, or something new outdoors that you can add to your surf sessions. Chances are you are traveling to a warm environment that offers plenty of options.
Lifting weights, adding more yoga or Pilates for strength and flexibility will always benefit your surfing. The repetition of the paddling and pressure on your lower back from popping up will take a toll if you are not building muscle and varying your fitness. Maybe as you start now, the habit will stick as the months grow warmer. Always be sure to stretch at home before you head to the beach. Your body and the onlookers will thank you.
Let’s be honest, surfing is physical and builds strength but not exactly cardio fitness unless you are in serious conditions for hours at a time. Do what you need to boost your cardiovascular functioning; running, hiking challenging terrain, biking, whatever is available to you. You want your body strong in all directions and modalities, and just surfing is not enough. If you want to keep surfing, keep yourself fit overall.
Take up a new activity where you are back in the seat of beginner. If you have been surfing for a while it may be nice to be humbled, frustrated and excited when you make progress. It can remind you of when you started surfing and how your skills are now so automatic. It can remind us that we are never too old to learn, never too young to have all the time in the world. Happy surfing!
