Benefits of Surfing
How is Surfing Good for Health
The act of surfing itself requires high endurance and stamina. It is a very taxing sport that brings a heap of benefits with itself. The energy, concentration, muscle coordination, and skill required keeps our body active, our muscles functional, and our mind at peace. Here are a list of all the benefits surfing offers:
Cardiovascular Health:
Surfing is an excellent way to kickstart your cardiovascular system. Surfing conditions your body to exercise and perform better physically. Engaging in this water sport involves paddling out to catch waves and continuously moving against the resistance of the water, which boosts your heart rate and improves cardiovascular health. Improved cardiovascular health can aid in lowering risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more! The repetitive paddling also works wonders in strengthening your arm, shoulder, and back muscles, adding to overall fitness and endurance.
Weight Loss:
Surfing is a fantastic way to shed weight and achieve a fitter, healthier body. Surfing is an intense anaerobic sport with short explosions of effort, followed by short periods of rest. The mix of cardio, strength training, and core engagement in this sport burns off lots of calories, just the same as any other high intensity sports like rock climbing and football would.
Mammalian Dive Reflex:
When you submerge yourself in water, your body triggers what is known as the mammalian dive reflex. This reflex kicks your body into autodrive, automatically lowering your heart rate and redirecting your blood flow to vital organs only. This allows you to conserve oxygen and stay underwater for longer periods. The calming effect of the ocean coupled with the rhythmic motion of the waves lowers your stress levels and brings about a state of calm. This Master switch is the reason why you feel energized after a round of surfing.
Muscle Development and Coordination:
Surfing requires a high level of coordination and balance. To be able to read the waves and respond with your body, you need to practice constantly. This regular practice can help improve coordination and balance, making you better at it with time. Improved coordination not only helps keep your mind sharp, but also improves quality of life in the long run.
Your core muscles are constantly engaged while surfing. Your core acts as a pivotal part of keeping you balanced. By making use of your torso, legs, arms, shoulders, and lower back, you work out your entire body.
Mental Wellness:
Nothing clears up the mind like cutting through the waves and learning how to ride the waters. The sense of accomplishment that comes from catching a wave, the feeling of being submerged in water, the ability to be present ‘in the moment’, and the social aspect of surfing can all help to improve your mood and overall mental health. Surfing acts as a great distraction from day-to-day stressors. Surfing requires that you tune into your surroundings and constantly keep watch of your senses. The sound of the waves, the feel of the sun on your skin, and the mental clarity that comes from being in the water injects peace, tranquility, and mindfulness in your persona.
Vitamin D Boost:
Basking in the sun-kissed waves while surfing exposes your skin to vitamin D. Vitamin D plays an important role in promoting bone health, regulating calcium levels in the body, and fostering overall well-being. Getting a regular dose of vitamin D not only boosts your mood but also strengthens your immune system.
Get Into Surfboarding
Getting into surfboarding can be daunting, but with the right preparation and attitude anyone can learn how to surf!
- Take a Lesson: Consider signing up for a surf lesson with a certified instructor to learn the basics of surfboarding, including proper techniques, safety tips, and ocean awareness.
- Practice on Land: Before hitting the waves, practice your pop-up technique on land to get a feel for the movements involved in standing up on the surfboard.
- Choose the Right Surf Spot: Start at a beginner-friendly surf spot with small, gentle waves to build your confidence and skills gradually.
- Stay Persistent: Surfboarding is a taxing sport. It requires patience and practice, so don't get discouraged if you don't catch waves right away. Keep practicing and enjoy the learning process!
Surfboarding Equipment
Surfboarding equipment doesn't just consist of a surfboard. Here is a list of items you'll need:
- Surfboard: Pick a surfboard that’s right for your skill level, such as a soft-top longboard or foam board. These boards are super durable and easy to maintain.
- Wetsuit: Depending on the water temperature, wear a wetsuit to stay warm and comfortable while surfing. Pick a wetsuit thickness appropriate for the conditions you'll be surfing in.
- Surf Wax: Apply surf wax to the top of your surfboard to provide traction and prevent slipping while paddling and standing up on the board.
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Sun Protection: Don't forget sun protection essentials like sunscreen, a rash guard, and sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from the sun's rays.
Accessories: Get yourself high quality surfing accessories like a leash, Traction pad, and ear plugs. Keep your board safe from dings and scratches by keeping it in a surfboard bag, like those from FARO. Not only do FARO’s surfboard cases safekeep your board but also make carrying your board around that much easier. Stay warm and maintain your privacy while changing in and out of your wetsuit with a surf poncho or changing robe.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you are a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking to dip your toes into the waters, the benefits of surfing are undeniable. From strengthening your body and cardiovascular system to uplifting your mood and promoting mindfulness, surfing has the potential to transform both your physical and mental health. Whether you are seeking a fun way to stay active, a therapeutic escape, or a source of personal growth, surfing offers something for everyone.
