Silver Surfers Require To The Waves To Make Big Splash

20 September 2011


ByLivvy Barber & Harriet Webb
Big Splash


Swimming has actually long been viewed as a sport for people of any ages - but with an ageing population looking for brand-new methods of keeping healthy and fit there has been a surge in individuals over 50 taking up surfing in Britain.


Think browsing and images of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair spring to mind but check out beaches all over Britain and you might be shocked to see a slightly more mature group of 'boarders' capturing the morning wave.


By 2012, it is anticipated 41% of the population in Britain will be over 50. According to the Active People Survey 40% of these guys and females are physically inactive.


But at groups all over the country, such as Newcastle's Silver Surfers - a surf club for the over 50s, individuals are savoring the enjoyable and health advantages water sports can bring.


Like swimming, browsing is an available form of exercise and can be done by anyone regardless of their age, weight, background or capability, alone or with their family and good friends.


A group of water sport fanatics informed the Big Splash how requiring to the water has helped to keep them young.


RICH EMERSON


Many males and women returning from the fronts deal with individual and mental battles, but as one British man has actually found, the sea can be a sanctuary.


Rich Emerson, a combat veteran, suffers with PTSD (post traumatic stress condition) and started Surf Action with buddy and surf partner Russ Pierre, to assist others like himself.


Surf Action is a social business specialising in browse treatment for hurt or psychologically scarred former servicemen.


how browsing takes you far from the barriers of daily life.


He stated: "Surfing is not a remedy but a focus, a passion and an activity that needs decision, perseverance and above all the goal to be successful.


"However, forgetting all that, it is enjoyable, it makes you smile.


"I think there are enough opportunities, we're an island, it simply takes a little bit of get up and go. We do not have a little bit of inspiration however it's so satisfying."


CLIFF COX


With remarkable added benefits for mind and body, Cliff Cox, former two-times English Masters Champion turned surf instructor, credits his health and wellbeing to surfing, enjoying the way it keeps him young at 50.


Cliff explained: "Being out in the ocean maximizes all the feeling, you go home a pleased camper at the end of the day.


"Surfing is incredible both psychologically and physically - being out in the water you feel totally free, it's a great bit of escapism.


"I absolutely think surfing and swimming go together, it truly helps your swimming ability and self-confidence in the water."


SYDNEY MARKS


Sydney Marks who turns 80 in November is a company follower that anybody can be included in anything on the water. He proves this theory by still water skiing once a week at Action Watersports in Kent.


Sydney said: "Over the years I have been under a little bit of pressure, however on the water you forget whatever.


"We go on the lake for the day with the kids with a little food and let the world pass you by.


"I may have a little less stamina and strength and be a little bit more mindful however you do it within your limits."


Lifeguard, 79, praises swimming


16 May 2011


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Pure Spirit Surf School


www.actionwatersports.co.uk


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