Digestopia - Surfing

The Low Down on Surf Camps

By Sheridan Hammond

Always wanted to learn to surf?

Surfing is more than a sport; it is a lifestyle that can be enjoyed by anybody. The act of catching your first wave or riding your first tube will send a smile to your face that will last for days, and have you returning for more. Surf camps are the ultimate experience for any aspiring surfer: to learn, develop invigorating techniques and share waves with new friends.

Qualified surf camp instructors aim to tap into the core strength and stability used to maximise surfing. A safe and un-intimidating environment is provided, where everything is explained thoroughly. The highly trained and experienced watermen/women will address technique, equipment, oceanography, safety, etiquette, and adhere to your specific goals.

Additional surf information is often provided, to allow people an understanding about the history, environment, and culture that gives this the surfing art form its international appeal. With surfing, it is important to learn to ride in unity with the pulse of the ocean while developing confidence and stamina.

The who and where of surf camps

Anyone is welcome to learn to surf, no matter what age, gender or ability. Beginners and advanced students will be guided and individually catered to, by experienced instructors. During the surf camp, the teachers will bring knowledge, support, comfort and inspiration to the learning process. Surf camps are ideal to be shared with family, friends and/or workmates. Alternatively, embark on a solo adventure and you will discover a multitude of friends you simply haven’t met yet.

Surfing camps are offered in enjoyable, safe locations all around the world, so it’s just matter of selecting your preferred destination. The best surfing locations include Australia, Hawaii, Fiji, Indonesia and many more. These locations allow you to experience beautiful coastline settings, with breathtaking scenery and magnificent blue oceans.

What do you need?

Surf camps vary in the requirements of what you should take along with you. Most camps generally provide accommodation, surf boards, lessons and meals, for your convenience. It is advisable to bring your own rash shirt or wetsuit, as occasionally these are not provided. If you’re already an avid surfer, you are welcome to bring your own surfboard.

Fitness preparation

Before embarking on a surf camp, it is advised to developing your fitness where you can. Below is a guide which will be beneficial for developing a fitness program; however any exercise you do will be valuable. It is most important to stretch before and after exercise and the key is to slowly build your fitness so you are able to maintain it.

By swimming approximately 200-400m or 1-2km at least once a week, this will enable your fitness levels to rise quite significantly. Freestyle is the best stroke to exercise, as it coincides with the nature of surfing. Jogging or walking on soft sand can also help strengthen leg muscles to help prepare for the demanding physical surfing environment. If possible, begin to practice paddling a surfboard in still water which will advance you at the surf camp.

A final encouragement

Remember, the best surfer in the world is the one that is having the most fun. Exceed your own expectations at a surf camp. One ride and you’ll be hooked.

Sheridan Hammond is the founder of Samudra – Surf & Yoga Retreats. Sheridan and his staff run surfing camps in magnificent ocean settings in Australia and around the world. Samudra promote fun and learning while experiencing a different culture, eating healthy foods and engaging in the intimate practice of yoga with new friends. For more information on a Samudra surf camp or Sheridan, please visit the website at www.samudra.com.au.

Article Source: Sheridan Hammond
Surf’s Up: The Low Down on Surf Camps