2 Tips When it Comes to Conditioning For Surfing
Published: 01/02/2010 by Damian Papworth
You really do not need to buy expensive equipment or perform any kind of radical training when it comes to conditioning for surfing. What you do need however, is the time, patience and dedication to perform physical and mental exercises regularly. Without these, your skills would remain at the most rudimentary level -- and that is never a good thing. You might be stuck on forever paddling out to the waters but never really catching, much less riding a wave. It does not matter if you are a novice, or an amateur surfer, or a pro athlete. A lot can still be said with creating your own conditioning for surfing regimen. Here are some essential tips on how to establish your own.
1. You need to consider your current level of physical fitness. Most pro athletes are at the top of their game, or very nearly so. This is the goal you need to achieve. Sure, you can surf with a flabby midsection, but this might make things a whole lot difficult for you in the long run. Besides, you might not be able to handle the tougher waves or stay afloat for very long if you are carrying more weight than you or your surfboard can carry. Your physical endurance might also be very low, which can lead to muscle fatigue and cramps right there in the water. Not only is this a poor showing of your surfing skills, but this can also cause drowning accidents as well.
Try to whip your body into shape by performing a number of cardiovascular exercises regularly. Core training is also essential if you want to maintain balance on the surfboard. Strength training for your arms (for paddling) and your lower extremities (for riding the waves) should also be part and parcel of your conditioning for surfing regimen.
You might want to watch your diet as well.
2. You need to find ways on how to condition your mind too. As they say, surfing is 75% physically challenging and 25% mentally demanding. This sport really begins with psyching yourself up to the rigors of the game. Some athletes practice visualization to help improve their game. Others prefer to think of calming thoughts to drive away fear and restlessness. And then there are others still who like looking at surfing picture stills or videos just so they get their groove on. It is up to you to find a mental activity that will help you become psyched up before you hit the water.
Damian Papworth does yoga for surfers. He finds it conditions his mind and body perfectly for the Gold Coast surf.
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