Silver Surfers Take To The Waves To Make Big Splash
20 September 2011
ByLivvy Barber & Harriet Webb
Big Splash
Swimming has actually long been seen as a sport for people of any ages - but with an aging population looking for brand-new methods of keeping healthy and fit there has actually been a surge in people over 50 taking up surfing in Britain.
Think browsing and pictures of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair come to mind but check out beaches all over Britain and you may be shocked to see a somewhat more fully grown group of 'boarders' catching 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 men and females are physically non-active.
But at groups all over the country, such as Newcastle's Silver Surfers - a surf club for the over 50s, individuals are savoring the fun and health benefits water sports can bring.
Like swimming, browsing is an accessible form of workout and can be done by anybody regardless of their age, weight, background or capability, alone or with their household and good friends.
A group of water sport enthusiasts informed the Big Splash how taking to the water has helped to keep them young.
RICH EMERSON
Many males and women returning from the fronts deal with individual and psychological battles, however as one British male has actually discovered, the sea can be a sanctuary.
Rich Emerson, a battle veteran, experiences PTSD (post distressing tension disorder) and began Surf Action with pal and browse partner Russ Pierre, to help others like himself.
Surf Action is a social enterprise specialising in surf therapy for hurt or mentally scarred former servicemen.
Russ discusses how surfing takes you far from the barriers of day-to-day life.
He said: "Surfing is not a cure however a focus, an enthusiasm and an activity that requires decision, determination and above all the goal to prosper.
"However, forgetting all that, it is fun, it makes you smile.
"I believe there are enough opportunities, we're an island, it simply takes a little get up and go. We do not have a little bit of inspiration but it's so rewarding."
CLIFF COX
With amazing added benefits for mind and body, Cliff Cox, former two-times English Masters Champion turned surf trainer, credits his wellbeing to surfing, thrilling in the method it keeps him young at 50.
Cliff explained: "Being out in the ocean frees up all the emotion, you go home a happy camper at the end of the day.
"Surfing is incredible both psychologically and physically - being out in the water you feel free, it's an excellent little bit of escapism.
"I certainly believe browsing and swimming work together, it truly assists your swimming capability and confidence in the water."
SYDNEY MARKS
Sydney Marks who turns 80 in November is a firm follower that anybody can be associated with anything on the water. He proves this theory by still water snowboarding as soon as a week at Action Watersports in Kent.
Sydney said: "Throughout the years I have been under a bit of pressure, however on the water you forget everything.
"We go on the lake for the day with the kids with a little bit of food and let the world pass you by.
"I may have a little less stamina and strength and be a little bit more cautious but you do it within your limitations."
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Surf School
www.actionwatersports.co.uk
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