WHY SURFING IS GOOD FOR YOU
Surfing is a great sport, it is a lot of fun, and it is not only a full-body workout. Surfing does wonders for your body, mind, and health. We’ve collected seven reasons why surfing is right for you, your body, and your mind.
It is never too late to start, surfing brings a lot of fun; for some, it is also a social activity. Besides those aspects, it also has a significant impact on your health and your body. We will explain to you why surfing is right for you and your inner balance. So no more excuses, get ready, and jump on the board. Or book your first surf lesson.
Happy hormones
Endorphins get released while you do physical exercises, which has a positive impact on your mood. Remember the last time you did a workout, went dancing or just for a walk? Probably you came back home with a happy feeling. Surfing has the same impact on your mental health; those endorphins also work as natural painkillers and mask discomfort. Did you ever hear that surfing is highly addictive? Now you probably wonder why an activity can be like a drug. Well, while surfing, our bodies produce a dose of adrenaline, serotonin, and dopamine. So surfing is a healthy drug.
In the middle of the ocean
Sitting in the ocean and being surrounded by nature comes with a lot of great benefits. Of course, you'll have a great time and get a different view of the landscape. The benefits are not only physical but also on an emotional level. Studies have shown spending time in nature is associated with a decrease in blood pressure, making us feel calm, exhilarated, and restored.
An who would not want to be able to work out in the ocean?
You learn to be patient.
We have to be honest with you, surfing and especially learning how to surf is not always easy. You will fall many times and struggling with paddling and fighting against waves. It takes a while until you feel comfortable and completely confident in the water and on your surfboard. Improving your surfing skills and getting more knowledge and experience is like a rollercoaster ride, and you need a lot of patience. You'll have amazing days in the water, but for sure you'll also have negative days where you question yourself and if surfing is the right activity for you. But isn't this the same in life outside the ocean? And even if you are an advanced surfer, you need to be patient - waiting for the waves to come in, or wait until it is your turn in the lineup. Patience is the magic keyword when it comes to surfing. And this skill will also help you in your daily life outside the ocean.
Surfing makes you (and your heart) strong.
We all know cardio exercising is good for the entire body. And surfing has the same impact. Surfing is 80% paddling - either for the wave or back to the lineup, and all this paddling is an excellent upper body workout. The muscles will show in no time. Not only will your arms get stronger, but so will your heart. Surfing keeps it pumping during the exercise, stimulating your cardiovascular health and resulting in healthier cholesterol levels and better blood sugar regulation.
Learn about self-love
Besides being patient, you also have to accept that you will have a surf session without catching a single wave or only catching a few. It is almost impossible to catch every single wave. And this is ok!
Surfing is about having fun and enjoy time in the water. Soak up this fantastic energy, and don't be mad about yourself. And if the frustration hits you, try to dive under and calm down, let this negative feeling go. Focus on the beautiful landscape around you and what fantastic present it is to be able to surf. Be grateful!
Good for your skin
Salty water can have amazing effects on your skin. It cleanses it and can even help with acne. The salt absorbs impurities and can soak up sebum to help control and balance your skin's oil levels. No need for facials in fancy spas and more time for surfing! But please be careful with the sun, always use sun protection (hat, sunscreen, zinc).
Eat all the delicious food.
An average surfer burns about 400 calories an hour, which benefits weight loss. Of course, this doesn't have to be a goal for everyone. But it makes it a little bit easier to try all the amazing food the world has to offer without feeling guilty for a second.
