Get Fit…at the Beach

May 23, 2008 by bruce

Learn to Surf!

Surfing is a great way to stay in shape! Here are tips on how:

Be a good swimmer and be comfortable in the water and ocean. Take a lesson from an experienced surfer/instructor.

Never surf alone.

Check the ocean condition, currents and tides.

Be properly equipped with the proper run board/longboard, leash, wax, swimwear rashguard and sunscreen.

Be in good physical condition. Attach the board leash to your back foot just before entering the water. Push the board nose-first in the water; when waist-deep; hop on in prone position.

Paddle hard to get through the breakers. Once through, sit up, straddle the board and wait for the right wave.

When you spot a wave to ride, turn the board’s nose toward shore, lay down and paddle.

Paddle until the board reaches the same speed as the wave When you’ve caught the wave, push up on the board’s rails with your hands and attempt to pop up.

Stand relaxed, feet shoulder-width apart, one foot forward; to keep from falling, lower stance then stand straight

When you wipe out (fall off) hold your breath, but don’t panic. Protect your head; roll with the wave. Locate the board (it is attached by the leash on your ankle.)

If you’re recovering from a wipe out, watch for the board. It may be in back of you and could hit you if another wave hits it. Move out of harm’s way

Get back on the board. Watch out for other surfers and others in the water

-Provided by surf instructor Marty Mentzer