Looking for an exciting summer activity for the kids? How about heading to the beach and giving surfing a try? It isn’t just about catching waves—surfing is a fantastic way to build confidence and improve your physical fitness. So, let’s dive into the many benefits of surfing for kids and why surf camp could be the ideal summer adventure!
1. Builds confidence
Just imagine your child conquering the ocean waves! Surfing is a thrilling sport that challenges kids to push boundaries and conquer fears, ultimately boosting their confidence. Mastering new skills like paddling out, catching waves, and maintaining balance on a surfboard instils a sense of achievement and self-assurance that will carry over in and out of the water.
2. Great for physical fitness
Without question, surfing is a full-body workout. But because it’s so much fun, it often feels more like play than exercise! Paddling strengthens the arms, shoulders, and back, while riding waves engages the legs, core, and stabiliser muscles. Surfing is also proven to enhance cardiovascular health, endurance, and overall physical fitness, keeping kids active and healthy.
3. Improves balance and coordination
Balancing on a surfboard takes a lot of focus and concentration. As kids learn to adjust their stance and navigate the waves, they start to develop proprioception—the ability to sense movement, action, and position. Moreover, surfing helps children refine their motor skills, which are beneficial not only for sports but also for everyday activities like dressing, eating, and writing.
4. Relieves stress and anxiety
One of the biggest benefits of surfing for kids is that it allows them to disconnect from their screens and spend time in nature. Breathing in the fresh, salty air, feeling the rhythm of the waves and simply being surrounded by the natural beauty of the sea promotes relaxation and aids children by releasing any tension or stress they may be carrying.
5. Teaches patience
Unlike high-energy sports such as netball or running, surfing is more of a waiting game—it requires patience to spot the right wave and time it just right to catch it. During their lessons, kids are taught to watch the ocean, predict wave patterns, and patiently wait for their chance. In short, it teaches them the value of perseverance in reaching their goals.
6. Enhances environmental awareness
Over time, surfers develop a profound respect for the ocean and its ecosystems. They learn all about marine life, tides, currents, and the importance of conservation. Kids who learn to surf are more likely to become stewards of the environment, fostering a deeper connection with nature and a sense of responsibility towards protecting it.
7. It’s awesome!
Surfing is downright awesome—pure and simple! The thrill of catching a wave, the exhilaration of gliding across the water, and the friendships your kids will form with like-minded peers create truly unforgettable experiences. Whether they’re beginners or seasoned surfers, surfing is a must-try activity that should be at the top of your summer agenda.
Take the plunge on a PGL surf camp!
We hope this blog has highlighted the extensive physical, mental, and emotional benefits of surfing for kids. So, why wait? Ride the waves this summer and let your child discover the joys of surfing!
A PGL surfing camp at our Beam House location is the ultimate playground for young adventurers. It’s a place where kids can learn from experienced instructors, make new friends, and immerse themselves in three days of thrilling multi-activities!
Get in touch with our friendly and experienced team today to see how we can help.
Surfing not your thing? No worries! We have a full range of other amazing outdoor adventure camps including Netball, Bushcraft, and other Watersports to try!
