getting better without actually surfing

[dondiemand]

i think u guys should stick to the topic, otherwise, open a new thread, have a good day

[David S]

I think surfing regularly is what makes you a surfer. When I was surfing once a week I enjoyed it but progressed slowly but since making surfing part of my daily routine I feel at home in the water and relaxed without the tiredness and awkwardnes that comes from not being paddle-fit and in tune with the waves.
I have skiied since I was 4 but haven't been able to go for the past 3 seasons due to kids/work/travel etc. I think this makes me someone who can ski rather than a skier.
Being a surfer to me seems to be more a way of life than a sport.

Anyway, to get back to the subject I think you need to surf heaps if you want to improve,preferably daily.

[GowerCharger]

I disagree about lifting heavy weights, i think it does help, I lift heavy and find that the explosive strength used lifting is a big plus when it comes to manouvers and getting power into your turns, although i do take your point and as this topic is about someone who doesnt surf often big turns arent really what he's aiming for so it probably wouldnt help in this case.

I hear a lot of people talk about yoga and having good results with it for flexibilty, personally i tried it and found it boring but if its your bag then you could find it helps a lot.

If theres a pool near you then use it, if theres one guaranteed thing that will make your time in the sea more productive its being able to paddle stronger and longer without tiring, and swiimming is the key to that. Try and get down there at least twice a week if not 3 times or more.

Maybe buy a longboard (skateboard) to help with your balance, carving a skateboard is similar to a surfboard and requires similar balance.

And watch surf dvds, it may not directly help your surfing but it will keep your stoke up and keep you focused on getting out there, and the guys in the dvds will probably have better style than the guys where you surf so you can hope to pick up some of that