swimming for surfing

Question
Hi,
I have just learnt to surf but have pathetically weak upper body strength. In addition to my new gym training sessions I'd like to swim to increase my strength surfing. Which strokes are best at mimicking the paddling action?
Thanks!!

Answer
Maureen,
Great question!  In reality any stroke is going to help you out with surfing.  Getting the "feel for the water" is the primary skill that you will need.  Overall, I would say that freestyle (the crawl) is going to be the easiest for you to develop.

The paddling motion on the surfboard can either be done with both arms moving together at the same time (like in butterfly) OR with both arms 180 degrees out from each other (like in freestyle).  Typically the freestyle motion is more efficient on the board.

I would say that any swimming you can do in the pool would help build your strength and your endurance.  This is going to help you stay in the water longer and not get as tired!

Best of luck and enjoy!
Eric