Riding the Waves to Surfing Success
Posted by Admin |October 23, 2012
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Riding the Waves to Surfing Success
Surfing is different to anything you will ever experience. It allows you to enjoy the sun and sand and be outdoors in the open air, but it will also be one of the best ways of keeping fit and exercising both mind and body. In fact, it will be very hard to explain exactly what surfing will feel like until you've actually tried it.
You'll need to prepare yourself before you grab your surfboard and head out, as surfing isn't going to be as easy as it looks the first time you try it, and you'll want to ensure that you have a great time, from the very first go, before your skills progress. Here's what you'll need to know to prepare yourself for this activity:
Surfing Requires Strength:
No, it's not just about balancing on a board in the open water. Surfing is a physically demanding sport, and you'll improve a lot quicker and have a generally better time if you develop your strength, endurance and overall agility. Exercises targeting your upper and lower body muscles will be great for this. Get in shape and stay fit so you can have a safe surfing experience.
Swimming and Surfing go Hand in Hand:
Sounds obvious, but you need to be aware that being a good swimmer is crucial in surfing. It will keep you safe while out at sea, allowing you to get out of rough water and maneuver yourself and your board back to safety. Not only that, but swimming as exercise is great on its own, and can be incorporated into your training program. Try swimming in open water so you get a feel for how the ocean changes - an experience you won't find naturally in an indoor pool.
Always Warm Up First:
As with any sport, it's important to do some warm-up exercises and gentle stretches before you head out to sea. Warming up your muscles will greatly reduce your chances of muscle injury.
School's In Session!:
Getting lessons through a reputable Surf School is a great way to learn the basics. Find a certified school and instructor and do the techniques the correct way, right from the very start. Having a good foundation in the basics will make the learning process easier.
Surf Safely:
Like being out on the open road, you'll also need to understand the surfing dangers you will more than likely encounter while you surf. Don't let that put you off - being aware of the dangers means you can stay on the safe side. It's also important to surf with a manner of courtesy for your fellow surfers, so you'll also need to learn the Surfing Rules and Etiquette. The water isn't just for you and surfing should be enjoyed by anyone who wishes to take part in it.
Don't Let the Ocean Scare You:
Yes, the ocean and Mother Nature are unpredictable but that's what so many love about Surfing. You can't predict it and you certainly can't tame it, and it makes many surfers aware of how blessed they are to be enjoying the gifts of nature. If you've got a bit of a fear of the ocean, you'll need to overcome it if you want to surf. If you follow all the guidelines above, you'll be better equipped when you're in the water and have more fun. As a safety guideline, particularly as a beginner, never surf alone. But also remember to stay positive in the water and never let your fear stop you from having fun in the water!
Surfing isn't about simply hopping on a board and riding a wave. You'll need to prepare yourself before you become a competent surfer, but in the meantime learning and enjoying the sport is part of the fun. It does require a bit of work on your part but all the training and learning will be well worth it. It's about staying safe and strong in the water, so you can surf better for longer.
This is only the beginning. There is still a lot of surfing information to absorb. Explore our other sections and take a closer look at what it takes to ride the waves.
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"Always watch and assess the conditions before you paddle out. Take the time to sit and observe the waves; try and learn to recognise rips and currents."
- Mick Fanning
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