Feeling sluggish after the over-indulgent nature of the festive period? There’s nothing like a good surf to help blow those cobwebs away. But what if you’ve taken a break from surfing? It is highly likely that every surfer, no matter their ability, has faced the out-of-surf-shape infliction from time to time. You may find that where once you were able to pop-up with little strain at all, you’re now clambering to stand up – it happens to the best of us!
Whether it be your first surf in a few months or even a few years, Kosin has teamed up with surf fitness coach Ollie Newton, from Surf Fit Academy, to help give you the confidence to get back out there safely and make 2022 one to remember.
Don't be your harshest critic
Be realistic. If you know you’re someone who has, for whatever reason, taken a break from surfing for a few months or more, don’t expect to be at the top of your surf game. Your fitness levels may leave you scratching for the horizon – that’s okay! Don’t judge yourself too harshly. Speak to yourself in a way that you’d speak to your best friend if they were in your shoes. Whether you get barrelled or wipeout, start each wave with the expectation to enjoy the ride and learn as you go.
"Surfing is the most blissful experience you can have on this planet, a taste of heaven." John McCarthy, big wave surfer
Give yourself time
We live in a world where we desire instant gratification rather than a slow journey to success. This may translate to securing the latest iPhone with the click of a button, but this does not – and cannot – apply to learning a new skill. In fact, wanting to fast-forward your surf skills will just lead to disappointment. Give yourself the time you need to enjoy your surf journey and you will reap the benefits.
Put the blinkers on
Comparing yourself to others can really rip the joy out of surfing. It serves no purpose other than to make you question your ability and confidence in the water. In order to get the best out of every wave, focus on your own enjoyment out there – it’s not a competition.
“Nobody wakes up one morning and suddenly feels confident. Like anything, it can be developed and improved with effort put in the right direction.” Ollie Newton, Surf Coach
Take action!
Waiting for the perfect time to get back out there is fruitless. As long as the conditions aren’t dangerous, there is no time like the present – imperfect action is better than no action at all.
Make the most of online tools
When trying to find the conditions that are right for your ability, don’t forget there are online tools to help you. Websites like Magic Seaweed and Surfline provide real-time web cam footage of the conditions at hundreds of surf spots across the country. Find the right wave for you as you get back out there.
IN CORNISH, ‘KOSIN’ LITERALLY MEANS ‘GOOD FRIEND’. AT KOSIN WE ARE ALL ABOUT THE RELATIONSHIPS WE HAVE WITH EACH OTHER, BUT ALSO THE RELATIONSHIP WE HAVE WITH THE OCEAN AND THE NATURAL WORLD THAT SURROUNDS US. KOSIN IS ON A JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY THAT WE WANT TO SHARE WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY.
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