Surfing: Exercises to Keep You in Shape for Riding Those Waves

As a surfer, you know that that physical fitness aspect can affect the way you surf. Basically, it will affect your wave count as a surfer. If you noticed that you are catching fewer waves that what you were used to before when you were younger and fitter, then it only means that you are getting out of shape. Maybe it's all those late night parties you had with other surfing buddies after a day of great surfing? Or, maybe you just got lazy to exercise?

Whatever it is, you have to remember that physical fitness is always important if you are a surfer. So, what should you do to get back in shape? Well, the answer would be to exercise. However, you need to remember that before you start a new exercise routine, you need to first assess your current fitness level. You should also start out slow in order to avoid injuries which will prevent you from surfing altogether.

First of all, you need to remember that the exercise program you do should be tailored to surfing. This means that you shouldn’t do bodybuilding exercises or bulk up. What you need is to be fit enough and stay in shape in order for you to catch more waves. Going through a bodybuilding program will only result in having a stiff body, which is definitely a no-no for surfers.

As a surfer, you need to go for a program that has a good mix of cardio exercises, strength training, stretching, and plyometrics.

For strength training, all you need is 6 types of exercises with 2 sets and 15 repetitions for each set. Cable trainers are great but free weights can also work. Do exercises that will target your abs, chest, legs, arms, and back. With stronger body frame, the more you will be able to handle difficult waves.

Plyometrics will be able to provide you explosive bursts of energy which is what you need if you are a surfer. Exercises will include leapfrogging across the floor, jumping squats, and indoor rock climbing. You can try practicing surfing pop-ups over and over again as this is a good plyometrics exercise.

Cardio is a very important type of training for surfers. Always remember that surfing is all about stamina and cardio exercises can give you more stamina. You have to remember that surfing will involve long stretches of paddling as well as long distance swimming. Using a treadmill is a great way to develop your stamina. And, another fantastic cardio training is swimming. You can also use an elliptical trainer.

Also, you need to remember that flexibility is important in surfing. It will also help avoid injuries. For this, you can take yoga classes. Or, you can simply do stretching exercises before and after you workout. It is also recommended that you should do stretching exercises before you hit the water to surf. This will make you more flexible and also prepare your body for a brutal beating which is exercise.

Being physically fit is very important if you are a surfer. Whenever you workout, you have to monitor your performance level. If you do everything right, you will be able to catch more waves and you will also be able to have a more satisfying surfing experience.