A new wave of training systems has emerged to enhance surf fitness, promising to enhance performance and prevent injuries. Here’s a look at two leading modalities that we believe to be the absolute BEST:
- Functional Patterns: This revolutionary training system aims to recondition the body for joint strength, functional flexibility, cardiovascular function, and stress resilience, all while maintaining a pain-free state. Functional Patterns offers a 10-week online program designed to reshape movement patterns and improve overall fitness.
- CHEK Institute: Known for its integrated and holistic approach to health and fitness, the CHEK Institute provides programs focusing on corrective exercise and performance coaching. A CHEK Practitioner offers personalised programs, including lifestyle and body assessments, to help individuals improve their fitness and reach peak athletic performance.
These modalities delve deep into identifying and addressing imbalances and injuries in the body, offering corrective exercises tailored to individual needs. By emphasising joint strength, functional movement, and overall resilience, they prepare surfers for the demands of the waves while promoting long-term health and well-being.
We have a saying that “The best surfer is the one having the most fun,” and “If you cannot swim back in, do not go out by yourself.”
Base level fitness for surfing encompasses several key elements:
- Pain-Free Surfing: The fundamental requirement is to surf without experiencing pain, allowing for enjoyable sessions without physical discomfort.
- Ease and Body Freedom: Surfing should be done with ease and without restrictions in body movement. This ensures fluidity in surfing maneuvers and enhances overall performance on the waves.
- Body Alignment and Imbalance Correction: Addressing body alignment and correcting imbalances is crucial to prevent future pain and injury. Imbalances can lead to joint stress and discomfort over time, impacting surfing ability.
- Joint Health: Maintaining joint health is essential. Excessive rotational shear or torque on the joints, exceeding 10%, can increase the risk of injury. Therefore, maintaining joint stability and alignment is vital for long-term surfing enjoyment.
- Muscle Strength: Strengthening the muscles, particularly those involved in surfing movements, contributes to improved performance and prevents fatigue. Focus on strengthening the core, upper body, and lower body muscles to support surfing activities.
- Cardiovascular Fitness: Developing cardiovascular endurance is beneficial for extended surfing sessions and overall health. Incorporating cardio exercises into your fitness routine enhances stamina, allowing for longer and more enjoyable surfing experiences.
By prioritising these aspects of fitness, surfers can achieve a solid base level of physical preparedness, enhancing their surfing performance and enjoyment while minimising the risk of injury.
Base level fitness for those wishing to surf unassisted:
North Caloundra Surf School recommends an Australian Surf Rescue Certificate, individuals must meet specific fitness standards set by Australian Surf Lifesaving. These fitness requirements ensure the safety and competency of surf rescuers.
The base level of fitness necessary for the Australian Surf Rescue Certificate includes:
- Swimming Proficiency: Candidates must be able to swim 200 meters in under 5 minutes. This swim can be completed in a pool of at least 25 meters in length or over a measured open water course.
These fitness components are essential for surf rescue operations and are vital for anyone planning to engage in surfing or other water activities without assistance. By meeting these standards, individuals demonstrate their readiness to participate safely in surf rescue activities and contribute to water safety efforts.
