Super Stretches For Surfers

By Clayton Beatty BSc

Clayton Beatty is the fitness expert behind Total Surfing Fitness, a website dedicated to functional fitness training for surfers. Clayton holds a BSc Degree in Human Movement and is a Qualified Exercise Scientist. If you would like to learn more visit his website at www.totalsurfingfitness.com

 

Flexibility is often overlooked, but very underrated when it comes to surfing. Tight muscles will always increase the risk of injury for surfers. When you get beaten heavily by a wave, your body often gets tossed around and contorted into all different positions. When you have a strong and flexible body, you are better equipped to take these beatings and remain injury free.

Stretching is also important after surfing as it aids in muscle recovery, meaning you can get back out in the surf feeling refreshed & energized, not tired & sore.

Here are some stretches you can do to improve your flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

You can perform these stretches daily well as before and after a surfing session. Hold each stretch for 20-30 seconds. Only hold the stretch to the point of tension, not pain.

HIP FLEXORS STRETCH

This stretch will help lengthen the muscles down the front of  your hips. These muscles are prone for tightness, especially for those people who are office bound and sitting in a chair most of the day.

LATS / SHOULDER STRETCH

The muscles of the upper back and shoulders tend to get overused from paddling. This stretch will help keep these muscles in good condition.

HAMSTRING STRETCH

For this stretch lie on your back and wrap a towel aroung your foot and then gently pull your leg until you feel a stretch down the back of your leg.

For more stretching exercises for surfers, visit www.totalsurfingfitness.com. Here you will find a complete functional training program designed specifically for surfers, which includes training for core strength, balance, cardiovascular fitness, upper & lower body strength and flexibility.