One of the best ways to learn how to surf is to attend one of the world’s best surf camps. With trained teachers on hand, lots of lessons with focused attention on the basics of surfing, and like-minded people around you the whole time, it’s a brilliant way to get to grips with this fun and exciting sport. However, don’t be under the impression that your surf camp experience is going to be a stroll in the park. Surfing is a surprisingly physical sport.
When you watch experienced surfers ride the waves, it looks completely effortless. However, to get to that level of skills there is a lot of energy involved. Be in no doubt about it – you will need to be fit and healthy before you get into the water, otherwise, you’ll struggle to keep up with the pace.
If you’re heading off to your first ever surf camp, it’s time to think about how you can improve your fitness level and get ready for what is going to be a very physical week. Surfers who have a good level of fitness are not only more confident when they take to the waves, they are also much safer, so here are some exercises to help boost your fitness and turn you into a much stronger surfer overall.
Boost Your Cardio
Heart health is important at the best of times, but getting in some serious cardio practice is pretty vital if you’re heading off to surf camp. There are lots of different cardio workouts you can do to improve your heart rate, but one of the best is to go cycling. This will also help to tone up your legs which will be taking a lot of strain when you’re surfing. If you don’t have a bike or it isn’t safe to ride in your area, think about using an exercise bike instead.
There are plenty of different excellent exercise bike models on the market today. However, of all the different models we’ve used, we have to say that Schwinn is still the one on top for their innovative designs and superior performance.
Go Swimming
Swimming offers a host of health benefits anyway, however when you’re planning on heading off to surf camp it is especially important to hone your swimming skills. You’ll be out on the open water. It isn’t like being in a swimming pool. There are waves and currents to contend with and this makes a big difference. You need to be a strong swimmer to cope with the varying water conditions.
Contrary to popular belief, surfing isn’t actually a particularly dangerous sport. However, around 10 surfers die per year as a result of drowning and you don’t want to become one of them.
h
The very best way of physically preparing for your surf camp is to develop the strong arm, back and shoulder muscles that will power you effectively through the sea. Try to swim at least 3 times every week before your camp and stay in the pool for a minimum of 20 minutes each time.
Improve Your Core Muscles
The core muscles form the very foundation of anyone’s body, and having sufficient core strength ensures you can stay balanced on your surfboard. You can do the plank anywhere and it will work wonders to boost the strength of those vital core muscles. Make sure you’re doing it right. It isn’t always easy to hold the plank in the correct position however there are many tutorials that show you how to do it properly. Try to work up to holding the plank for up to three minutes.
There are some other useful exercises you can do to prepare for your camp. Push-ups are just one which can help you to get the most out of your surf lessons. Push-ups help you increase your strength so you can “pop up” when riding waves. Begin by doing two sets of ten push-ups and then work up to fifty if you can. Squats and lunges are also beneficial for those learning how to surf. Having a strong lower body is important for staying steady and balanced on your board. If your legs are strong, you will be much stronger on your board. If you can progress to adding in some jump squats, this will stand you in good stead.
Add Yoga Into Your Routine
Although yoga may seem irrelevant when you think of the physical nature of surfing, in fact, it complements the sport perfectly. Yoga improves your flexibility, balance, and strength – all essentials when you’re riding the waves.
Staying fit and improving your health are very important if you’re going to be attending your first surf camp, so what are you waiting for? It’s time to hit the gym! Before you know it, you’ll be taking to the water like a pro!
