Surfing Requires Learning and Physicality
Surfing Requires Learning and Physicality to get past the first day successfully. Most students who take lessons are surfing the first day, but those with out the ability to learn or not physically fit need more time.
What is the learning? Surfing is timing and rhythm. The surfer catches a wave, pops up, and rides to the beach. In this scenario, there are many small steps and techniques. Each step has to be included correctly. I give students a count to process the steps out loud to overcome their desire to rely on their instincts.
Learning the Sequences
The count and steps march the body through the techniques. Those who can’t remember the sequence or coordinate their body with the steps have difficulty. The steps are paddle to catch the wave. After getting in front of the wave, the student places his hands on the board in a man’s push up position and glides for a few seconds. Then he pushes up and places a back foot flat on the board. He stands on that foot for a few seconds as he lifts his hands off the board and moves the front foot to the nose.
Each step has to be done correctly. To accomplish these steps, the surfer has to have some upper body strength, core strength, and lower body strength to lift his weight off the board. Flexibility is needed to get the first foot flat on the board. Flexibility is needed in the hamstrings, buttocks, and lower back. The student has to pop into the correct stance to ride the board.
Lean is a Surfers Friend
Students who are over weight have difficulty. Students who are obese will find it impossible. Both have probably lost strength and flexibility by not exercising while gaining weight. Training is needed to get in surf shape. I have two books that can outline the necessary steps (below).
The two best exercises for strength and flexibility are pushups and squats. Squats can be done without weights but weights will increase lower body strength and flexibility. Surfers also need stamina. Aerobics is the best discipline for stamina. The muscles need to be developed to absorb more glucose (from carbohydrates) to act as fuel. Slow aerobic exercises for longer durations will train the body to burn fat for fuel.
Let’s Stir in a Little Courage
Finally, it should be mentioned that surfing requires courage. Many people are afraid to stand up and they don’t realize it until they begin. I spot it and point it out to students that they need to have the courage to stand up and not worry about falling (its only water) or they will not advance.
Most students think it is great fun and many say they love and become addicted. Surfing is a connection to the ocean, your own abilities to learn, and lots of great exercise.
More Posts
Oceanside Surf Lessons for Beginners
Beginner Surfers Learn the Pop Up
How to Progress to Surfing the Short Board
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To in surfing shape see my website Get Fit to Surf
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