Get in Shape to Hit the Surf

There's no question, the best way to learn to surf is to surf. It's that simple. But unfortunately surfing is not that simple to learn. So if you've been spending a lot of time on the couch lately, it'd be a good idea to get your body in shape before hitting the waves.

Here are some exercises to help you get in shape for surfing:

• SWIM: Concentrate on the crawl stroke because that's closest to the actual motion used in surfing. Try to swim three or more times a week for at least 20 minutes. Practice both distance swimming (important for paddling out to the break) and sprint swimming (essential for the powerful strokes necessary to catch a wave).



• STRENGTH TRAINING: Focus on your upper body to increase your strength and endurance. Try biceps curls for arm strength and regular push-ups for the muscles used when popping up on the board. To avoid building muscle bulk, which could affect flexibility, lift light weights for many repetitions.



• BALANCE TRAINING: Try to get a hold of a balance board, a flat skateboard deck with a rounded dowel on the base that simulates a front-to-back rock (two popular ones are the Bongo Board and Rolo Board). This will help with balance and the lower-body strength necessary for surfing. You can even hop on the board in your living room while watching TV.



• CROSS TRAINING: Try snowboarding and skateboarding in the off-season. Both sports develop the same agility and sense of balance required in surfing.


Stephanie Oakes is a fitness correspondent for Discovery Health Channel, a contributing editor for USA Weekend Magazine and the LA Times, and appears on NBC's 'Today in New York'. She can be reached at soakes@beststuff.com.