Why Mobility Matters in Surfing

Mobility refers to the ability of a joint to move through its full range of motion, and it’s pivotal for surfers for several reasons:

Enhanced Balance and Stability:

Good mobility allows for better balance on the board. Flexible ankles, knees, and hips help surfers adjust their stance quickly and maintain stability on the moving waves.

Injury Prevention:

Limited mobility can lead to compensatory movements that may increase the risk of injury. By maintaining flexibility and strength in key areas, surfers can reduce the likelihood of strains and sprains.

Improved Technique:

Many surfing maneuvers require a full range of motion. For example, executing a powerful turn or carving the wave efficiently demands flexible and strong hips and shoulders.

Evidence-Based Insights

A study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research highlights the link between flexibility and athletic performance, including in sports like surfing. The research indicates that improved joint mobility can enhance overall performance and reduce the risk of injuries, making a strong case for incorporating mobility work into training regimens (Kraemer et al., 2017).

5 Effective Mobility Exercises for Surfers

You don’t need a gym to work on your mobility—these exercises can be done right at home. Incorporate them into your routine to enhance your surfing performance:

1. Hip Flexor Stretch

  • How: Kneel on one knee with the other foot in front, forming a 90-degree angle. Push your hips forward gently while keeping your torso upright. You should feel a stretch in the front of your hip.
  • Why: Surfing requires a lot of hip flexibility, and tight hip flexors can limit your range of motion and affect your balance.

2. Thoracic Rotation/”Thread the needle”

  • How: Start on your hands and knees, with your hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Reach in and through between your other arm and your legs. Allow your body and head to follow, moving your shoulder down towards the floor as your hand reaches through. Hold this position, and then return to the starting position.
  • Why: A flexible thoracic spine is essential for proper paddling and overall movement efficiency on the board.

3. Shoulder Dislocates

  • How: Hold a broomstick or a resistance band with a wide grip. Lift it over your head and behind your back, then return to the starting position. Perform 10-15 repetitions.
  • Why: Improves shoulder flexibility and mobility, crucial for efficient paddling and arm movements.

4. Deep Squat Hold

  • How: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and squat down as low as possible while keeping your chest up and your heels on the ground. Hold this position for 30-60 seconds.
  • Why: Enhances hip, knee, and ankle flexibility, which is vital for balance and stability on the board.

5. Calf Stretch

  • How: Stand facing a wall with one foot forward and one foot back. Press the heel of the back foot into the ground and lean forward gently. Hold for 20-30 seconds and switch sides.
  • Why: Flexible calves are important for maintaining balance and proper foot positioning on the board.

Mobility is a cornerstone of effective surfing. By integrating these exercises into your regular routine, you can improve your performance, reduce the risk of injuries, and enjoy your time on the waves. Remember, the better your body moves, the better you can ride! Through personalized physiotherapy at PEAK, we can tailor a program for you and improve your balance and mobility! 

References
Kraemer, W. J., Ratamess, N. A., & Nindl, B. C. (2017). “Physiological and Performance Changes Associated with Flexibility Training.” Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 31(5), 1241-1248.

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