So your friends are planning a surfing trip but you don’t know how to surf. Don’t give up yet because there are a few practices you can do for a head start. You don’t need an ocean to train surfing. Here is what you can do before going onboard.
Strength Training
Paddling out to the waves takes strength of your arms and endurance. It is very important that you land upright after pushing up the board. Try such exercises as tuck jumps and push-ups before going for the actual surf.
Breathing
The foundation of your core control is the quality of breathing underwater. Breath control is paramount to the state of your nervous system and consequently your surfing prowess. Work on your breathing so your lungs can move diaphragmatically. Make good use of the diaphragm through belly breaths and three-dimension expansion of the ribcage. Quit using your neck to breathe as it adds unnecessary pressure on the upper cervical muscle and shoulders.
Bosu Balance Training
Surfing requires a lot of balance while twisting side to side. In addition to lunge holds, medical ball twists, and pistol squats, add a Bosu Balance Trainer to your gym routine. It is an inflated ball that is attached to a flippable but stiff platform. The platform allows you to choose both unstable and stable balance training. It can also be an all-body workout tool. Bosu Ball is thus a perfect way to improve your stability and lower body strength.
Skateboarding
Ride surf-friendly skateboards to train muscle for rotational moves. If you can master body-eye coordination and stamina, then you are ready to hit the surf. You need to be a good skater to become a professional surfer.
If you are not lucky enough to surf 3 to 5-foot waves, focus on land-based training first so that when you finally get into the water, you get better by day. Stay in good surfing shape by practicing the above tips.
