There are huge benefits in surfing.
Of course before you can surf like a pro, you need to learn how to surf. And the first lesson, includes learning how to get on your feet.
But for me, this was a challenge because I am very clumsy and bad with balance. But by the end of the lesson, even I could stand (yay!) Surfing turned out to be so fun that by the end of it, 2 hours had gone by, and I just didn’t want to quit.
The health benefits of surfing don’t only apply to your physical health. There are also the mental benefits. It is one of the best ways to de-stress and while you’re on holiday, you can work on that tan and get fit at the same time. Win-win!
Here are some Benefits of Surfing:
Improved Cardiovascular Fitness
Surfing is incredibly challenging on the body and on the heart. This is a good thing. As your heart pumps faster and you work harder, stamina will increase. To swim out and catch the surf, and then to weave in and out of the waves all require stamina, endurance, agility and strength. Strengthening your cardiovascular system can help improve shortness of breath, fatigue and even prevent heart attacks. Research has found that the best way to improve your cardiovascular system is by participating in activities such as walking, swimming or surfing that stress your heart and the accessory organs.
Improved Balance
This is something I had to improve on, big time. Training on land, on the proper surfing technique, ain’t nothing like actually standing on the surfboard! In order to stay on the surfboard, you must have a strong ability to maintain your balance. This skill carries over into everyday life. While it may not appear to be especially important while you’re young, having a good sense of balance is increasingly essential as you age. It could save your life and keep you from falling and fracturing your body when you age.
Increased Strength
I found this challenging too. To have to fight the waves to get out to the sea, and then to paddle hard once you are infront of the wave, and then to push yourself off the surfboard and stand – all this requires strength. With consistent surfing, you can increased muscle mass and strength in your arms, shoulders and chest. Good mass will result in an increase in metabolic rate, thereby increasing calorie burn over the course of the day. This could help achieve weight loss goals, and can aid in the treatment and prevention of obesity.
Increased Flexibility
Surfing increases flexibility. One you get good at it, and start twisting and turning, riding the wave, flexibility will follow. Increased flexibility makes you a better surfer,and also helps prevent injuries both on and off the surfboard. In life, increase flexibility also means less injuries when you are rushing around, going about your daily routine.
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