Weight Training for Surfers

Regardless of how far you plan to go with surfing, the fact is simple; you need strength to be a successful surfer. One of the most effective, and well known ways to build muscle mass and gain strength is by lifting weights. Lifting weights can help in more ways than one. It will help you avoid injuries, protect your bones surfing rocky breaks, and even slightly improve your balance. If done properly the benefits of weight lifting can be seen in as little as three to four months.

The biggest mistake made when lifting weights is improper lifting. By being careless and not taking precaution, you are making your body become vulnerable to injury. The main thing to take in account when lifting weights is to always keep your back straight, use a normal breathing pattern, and stop if you feel pain. By following these precautions you are ensuring you will get the most satisfaction from your workout routine. Please note that before lifting weights or following any workout regimen, please consult your doctor or physician.

The most common question people ask is "How does lifting weights actually build strength? The simplest way to explain muscle growth is that the pressure put on the muscles leads them to "feel" as if they should push more weight. This phenomenon is called Muscular Hypertrophy, or "muscle thickening". It is still debatable whether or not there is a certain point where the muscles divide and grow further. Muscle size is not really relevant when it comes to surfing, as we are not "bodybuilders". Surfers should focus on exercises that relate to muscle strength and stamina, as opposed to toning.

As surfers we need a much more specialized weight training system to be successful at what we do. It is proven that all surfing maneuvers rely on the core (abdominal area and back) to be performed.

The most effective lower-back exercise is known as a "Straight-Leg Dead Lift". When lifting weights always be sure to use proper lifting technique, and rest frequently. The science behind the Straight-Leg Dead Lift is that the lower-back muscles are used as a stabilizer and the hamstring and core muscles are built.

• Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.

• Grasp barbell with a shoulder-width grip.

• With knees straight, lower the bar towards the top of your feet by bending your hips.

• After the hips can no longer flex, bend your waist as the bar approaches the top of your feet.

• Lift the bar by extending the waist and hip until you are standing in an upright position.

• Pull shoulders back and repeat.

Seeing as how 90% of the time spent surfing consists of paddling, it is only obvious that a paddling workout is implemented as well. One of the simplest, yet most effective exercises is known as a dumbbell curl. To start this exercise, keep your back straight, and feet shoulder-width apart. Hold a dumbbell in each hand to the outer part of your thighs. Proceed to lift each dumbbell individually towards your shoulder in an "arc" motion. Now alternate while keeping the same form.

These simple surfing training exercises alongside the full body workout routine will build muscle as well as increase muscular stamina. You may read more from http://www.surfingtraining.org. By following its surfing training guides, you can ensure your surfing success and enjoyment.