While surfing and yoga look like two different activities, they share a deep connection. Both disciplines require a deep connection to the body, mind, and nature around us. Surfing and yoga challenge our physicality with its dynamic movements and balance, by focussing on flexibility, strength, and mental focus – all essential skills to avoid wipeouts. This is why yoga for surfers is perfect to incorporate into their daily surf routines!
Let’s explore how these eight yoga poses will have a positive impact on your surfing experience. It’s time to combine your love for the ocean with a downward-facing dog!
Start your yoga sequence with the Warrior II, a pose that’s all about building the foundation for your surf stance. Stand with your feet about four feet apart, turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Extend your arms parallel to the floor, palms facing down. Hinge at your hips, lowering your right hip towards the floor while keeping your torso upright. Gaze out over your right hand. This pose strengthens legs, core, and improves balance and stability.
Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.
The Triangle Pose helps to improve your balance and flexibility, essential for those wobbly moments on your board. Begin in Warrior II. Extend your right arm down towards your right shin or foot, reaching your left arm towards the ceiling. Keep your torso long and gaze up at your right hand. This pose stretches your hamstrings, spine, and chest, while enhancing hip flexibility and balance.
Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.
From the Triangle Pose move your body up and stand tall with your feet together. Shift your weight onto your left foot and bring the sole of your right foot to your inner left thigh or calf. Find your balance, look at one still point and reach your arms upwards to the sky, palms together.
Hold for 30 seconds to a minute on each side.
This classic pose is a surfer’s best friend. It stretches your whole body, from your fingertips to your heels! Start on your hands and knees, spread your fingers wide, push them in the mat and tuck your toes. Lift your hips towards the ceiling, forming an inverted V shape with your body. This pose stretches your hamstrings, calves, and spine while strengthening arms, shoulders, and core. You can make subtle movements with your legs and body.
Hold for 30 seconds to a minute.
Lie face down on the floor with your hands directly under your shoulders. Press into your hands and lift your body off the ground, forming a straight line from head to heels. Try to engage your core and keep your body steady and straight. It’s a great core exercise that strengthens your arms, shoulders, and back while improving stability and balance.
Hold for 30 seconds to a minute.
This lunge targets the muscles you use to paddle and move on the board. Step your right foot forward into a lunge position and lower your left knee to the ground. Push your hips forward and extend your arms overhead, hands together. Keep your torso upright and gaze forward or close your eyes.
Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.
A yoga pose specifically to open your chest, neck, and legs while strengthening glutes, hamstrings, and core is the Bridge Pose. Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor, arms next to your body. Press your feet and arms into the ground and lift your hips off the floor, creating a bridge shape. Interlace your hands beneath your pelvis for support.
Hold for 5-10 breaths.
End your session with Child’s Pose to relax and recharge. Kneel on the floor, with your knees facing to the sides, and sit back on your heels. Fold forward, resting your forehead on the ground. Extend your arms out in front of you or alongside your body. This pose is a relaxing pose that restores the body and mind,
hold it for as long as you like.
By incorporating these poses into your surf routine, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your balance, strength, and flexibility. You’ll also feel that yoga helps you connect with the ocean on a deeper level.
Ready to ride the perfect wave? Book your first surf lesson today, join our Learn How To Surf program and discover the power of combining yoga and surfing!
