I, like every surfer, absolutely dread when the waves go flat. It’s the worst when I can’t spend my precious free time in the water. Unfortunately, this seems to be the case a lot of the time here in Los Angeles.
If you’re like me, you like to keep your muscles moving despite the depressing surf report. Luckily, you’ve got options. Whether or not you’re a surfer, here are ten fun workouts that are guaranteed to keep you satisfied and smiling, all year round.
Indo Board
Photo: Indoboard.com
One of the best things to train your balance outside of the water is the Indo Board. This simple oval-shaped plank is ideal for practicing movement and flexibility. Throw some dumbbells or yoga poses in the mix and you’ve got yourself a hell of a work out. It can really improve your surfing, too.
Skateboarding
Steve Cathey, one of the Z-Boys from Dogtown. Photo: http://selvedgeyard.com/
You may think you’ve grown too old for skateboarding, but it’s definitely not just for middle schoolers or stoners. It’s arguably the closest thing to surfing, especially if you slap on some gelled wheels and start carving. The more Dogtown the better.
Snowboarding and Skiing
Photo: Patagoniacalling.com
Oh, the satisfaction of carving through fresh powder. It’s unbeatable. Provided you have access to some snow and a mountain, snowboarding and skiing are two phenomenal workouts for your body, especially if you hike the mountain. I recommend topping it all off with a hot tub at the end of your session.
Swimming
Photo: Flickr.com
You’ve likely heard that swimming is one of the best work outs because it works every single muscle in your body without damaging your joints. That’s definitely true. It’s great because all you need is access to some area of water–a pool, lake, or preferably, the ocean.
Running
Photo: posichiro.com
It’s pretty self explanatory. The beauty of running is it can be done absolutely anywhere, at anytime. As with all exercises, the better the location, the better the work out.
Yoga
Photo: Huffingtonpost.com
In the last decade, yoga has evolved into a full-blown movement here in California. Luckily it’s one of the best things you can do for your body, mind and soul. If you don’t want to shell out cash for classes there are plenty of yoga apps for your smartphone.
Golfing
What can’t Kelly do? Photo: Abc.net.au
It’s incredible how many surfers have hopped on the golf bandwagon. I speculate it’s because like surfing, it’s a fairly simple game that can be done alone. It’s also another activity that keeps you as close to nature.
Boxing
The legend, Muhammad Ali. Photo: Usatoday.com
Want to unleash some pent-up stress and get hell of a work out? Try boxing. There aren’t many things more rewarding than beating the crap out of a bag, or sparring your partner. It’s even one of the best cardio exercises you can do. Just ask Muhammad Ali.
Weight Lifting and Surf Training
Cris Mills teaching a surf strength course. Photo: Surfstrengthcoach.com
Pumping iron has always been popular. It can also yield some serious results. What’s even better than just getting buff is tailoring your workout to improve your surfing. I recommend following Cris Mills, a phenomenal surf strength coach who crafts workouts and nutrition programs specifically for surfers.
