Getting in Shape to Surf
Getting in shape to surf and sessions will last longer and be more fun. In Oceanside surf lessons, we use soft top boards to make learning to surf easier, but it is still physically demanding.
Stamina is Important
Surfing requires stamina as paddling is the most tiring aspect. Strength to paddle is important in order to get in front of waves. Upper body gym work and especially pulling cables is good. Chest presses, squats, and dead lifts help strengthen the chest, core, legs, and back.
Stamina can be increased with any aerobics and adding intervals helps with the quick bursts needed for paddling into waves. Recovery is important so low impact long duration aerobics work like nice walks, bike rides, and tread mill.
Flexibility is Important
Flexibility is important. Touching the floor with hands and straight knees is a good indication. What gets tight are hamstrings, buttocks, and lower back. Obviously yoga is good. Squats and dead lifts also help with these muscles. Standing on one leg and extending the other holding the toes is a good exercise for loosening buttocks and hamstring muscles.
Strength, flexibility, and stamina are all useful to learn surfing. Many exercises can give you pieces of the total pie. Getting active is also important for a higher quality life style.
Learn More
For Oceanside Surf Lessons, see the Home Page
See the Post Surf Lessons Begin with Foam Waves
See the Post What You Learn in a 2 Hour Lesson
See the Post How to Progress in Surfing
See My Dry Land and In Water Demo video
See How to Catch a Green/Real Wave video