Home-based Surf Exercises to Keep you Fit during Quarantine

The desire to get into the waters is quite understandable. Some surfers are even ready to get arrested if not allowed to surf. But during these hard times, when the whole world is going through a pandemic and major countries are under lockdown, one must understand the importance of staying indoors. Though everyone is praying it gets over soon, the increasing cases are pointing otherwise. So how do you maintain your fitness level at par? Well, these home-based surf exercises will keep you fit during quarantine for your next surf trip as no one knows when this lockdown is going to get over.

Squats: squats are great for leg strengthening. In fact, they are considered full-body exercise as the ankles, knees, hips, and spine are kept in line while doing squats and that’s very important while surfing. You can start with a basic front squat and move on to try the variations gradually. Some of the names are jump squat, one-leg squat, rotational squat, barbell squat, split-squad with further variations.

Pushups: Though the classic pushups can never go out of style, you have to try new variations as you progress. Move forward with dynamic pushups meant for surfing. This will help in making stable and firm shoulders.

Lunges: Start with basic lunges. Then try moving your feet at different angles or to the hour hand of a clock. Repeat it at least 15–20 times on each side so that, once the lockdown is over, you don’t feel like a bear fresh out of hibernation for being stiff.

Turkish getups: Who told you will need a kettlebell to do the Turkish get-ups! Any dumbbell or even a sand-filled football is workable. They will improve mobility, stability, shoulder control, and core strength. Once you get the technique, increase the weight gradually.

Crawling: By crawling we have always meant moving on your hands and knees. According to Surf Strength Coach Chris Miller, crawling on your hands and toes is what’s fit as a surf exercise. The key is not losing the stability of your spine. You can check out his channel here. And if you want to start planning your next surf trip click here.

Pull-ups: You have full shoulder range motion. 5–10 seconds of holding at a time and then release. Repeat this a few times and you will have stronger arms and shoulders. You can even go for ring pull-ups.

Balance board: The best thing to do when beaches are forbidden at the moment. It is an exciting way to pump up your workout, and improve your balance at the same time.

Gym Ball: By doing basic exercises on an unstable surface like that of a gym ball, you work on your strength, balance, and cardio endurance altogether. Single leg hip extension with a stability ball can be a powerhouse for knee workout.

Another very important tip to keep you fit during quarantine:

Meditate: Though it doesn’t affect your surfing directly, it sure keeps you calm and peaceful during this stay home fiasco. After all physical training is not everything; you need motivation, mental strength, and a lot of patience to become a true surfer. And these can be achieved through meditation even for 10–15 minutes a day. That’s not much to ask for.

Once all of this is over, go get barreled somewhere. But till then stay home, stay safe, and keep exercising.