The Health Benefits of Surfing

You may have noticed that many surfers don’t look their age, are usually in a good mood, and genuinely look forward to being active.  The benefits of surfing span much further than just being physical- it’s also great for your mood, and your mind.  Health Fitness Revolution promotes being physically active and mentally balanced, which is why we urge you to find a sport that you love, that motivates you to be active.  Here are the reasons surfing is a great sport:

• Makes you Physically Stronger:  Surfing is a great cardiovascular exercise that keeps your heart pumping throughout it’s duration.  Since a large part of surfing involves paddling, which is low-resistance, you get a good core and upper body workout.  Once you find a wave to catch, you are using your core for balance, and your legs remain active.  Water sports in general tend to be great full-body exercises, and surfing is no exception.

• Helps with Weight Loss: The average person burns around 400 calories an hour while they surf.  The great part about surfing is that the hour tends to go by very fast and you will more than likely want to surf another hour!

• Provides Mental Benefits: Surfing is done in nature, which alone has many health benefits that we mentioned here.  Secondly, extended physical exercise leads to the release of endorphins which provide a natural euphoria and good mood.  Those who surf also mention the feeling of power they feel while the commune with the ocean, and that it has taught them patience. Since surfers must focus on the water, their movements, and the wave sets, they find this time a release from thoughts and the dialogue that’s always in our heads.

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