Action Sports Uncovered: Surfing
Taking a beach holiday this summer? Take up surfing and ride those awesome waves. As a surfer you benefit from cardiovascular fitness, build your shoulder and back muscles and gain core and leg strength. You also improve your balance and flexibility and have the time of your life doing it.
Waves can be found in lakes and rivers, not just the ocean. In fact, way back in 1885, three teenage Hawaiian princes famously surfed the mouth of the San Lorenzo River in Santa Cruz, California!
Make the most of your first surf lesson by being prepared. Get in shape by swimming regularly to sharpen those skills. Choose a surf school designed for beginners and don't worry about equipment at this stage. The school will provide you with everything you need including surfboard, wetsuit, rashguard and leash. You will probably need around 6 lessons before you can head out on your own at which point you can rent the equipment.
If you decide to permanently add surfing to your lifestyle, try Billabong and Quiksilver for top wetsuits, boardshorts, rashguards and surf accessories.
Go all out and adopt some surf culture such as the Shaka sign, a hand gesture that means "hang loose". Finally, remember not to drop in aka don't steal somebody else's wave! Happy Surfing!