Check our Guide to Lombok's Surf Breaks
FLOATING YOU THOUGHTS
Surfing isn't just a sport; it's a dynamic, full-body workout that engages various muscle groups, promotes balance, and enhances overall fitness. As you ride the waves, your body undergoes a transformation, working in harmony to navigate the ever-changing ocean. Let's dive into how surfing impacts different body parts and unveils the hidden workout beneath the surface.
1. Core Strength: The Surfer's Powerhouse
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of surfing is the demand it places on your core muscles. Balancing on the board, paddling, and maneuvering through waves all require a strong and stable core. From the rectus abdominis to the obliques, surfing is a core workout like no other, sculpting your midsection as you ride each wave.
2. Upper Body: Paddling
Surfing is about 80% paddling. Paddling out to the lineup is a fundamental part of surfing, making your upper body a primary focus. Your shoulders, back, and arms get a thorough workout as you paddle against the resistance of the water. Over time, this builds strength and endurance in your upper body, contributing to improved posture and toning.
3. Legs and Glutes: Powering Through Turns
When you're up on the board, your legs become the driving force behind your movements. Whether you're carving through waves or transitioning from prone to standing, your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes work together to provide stability and power. Surfing demands constant leg engagement, leading to toned and strengthened lower body muscles.
4. Cardiovascular Endurance: Riding the Waves
Surfing is an excellent cardiovascular workout. The continuous paddling, navigating waves, and the bursts of energy required for maneuvers elevate your heart rate, contributing to improved cardiovascular endurance. The rhythmic nature of surfing ensures that you not only build stamina but also enjoy an invigorating cardiovascular exercise session.
5. Balance and Coordination: The Silent Workout
Balancing on a constantly moving surface challenges your proprioception, enhancing overall balance and coordination. Every wave you catch, every turn you make, refines your ability to maintain equilibrium. This not only improves your surfing skills but also sharpens your overall sense of balance and coordination, benefiting daily activities.
6. Mental Well-Being: The Mind-Body Connection
Beyond the physical aspects, surfing nurtures the mind-body connection. The focus required to read waves, make split-second decisions, and stay present in the moment enhances mental clarity and mindfulness. Surfing becomes a holistic experience that not only strengthens the body but also revitalizes the mind.
In conclusion, surfing is a comprehensive workout that engages and transforms your entire body. From building core strength to toning muscles and enhancing cardiovascular endurance, each wave contributes to a healthier, fitter you. So, the next time you paddle out into the lineup, maybe at one of our Floating You retreats, know that you're not just riding waves; you're sculpting a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.