Silver Surfers Require To The Waves To Make Big Splash

20 September 2011


ByLivvy Barber & Harriet Webb
Big Splash


Swimming has long been viewed as a sport for people of all ages - but with an ageing population seeking brand-new methods of keeping fit and healthy there has actually been a rise in people over 50 taking up browsing in Britain.


Think surfing and pictures of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair come to mind however check out beaches all over Britain and you may be surprised to see a slightly more fully grown group of 'boarders' catching the morning wave.


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


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


Like swimming, surfing is an accessible type of workout and can be done by anybody regardless of their age, weight, background or capability, alone or with their family and buddies.


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


RICH EMERSON


Many men and females returning from the fronts deal with individual and psychological struggles, however as one British male has actually found, the sea can be a sanctuary.


Rich Emerson, a fight veteran, experiences PTSD (post distressing stress disorder) and started Surf Action with pal and surf partner Russ Pierre, to help others like himself.


Surf Action is a social business specialising in surf therapy for injured or mentally scarred former servicemen.


Russ describes how surfing takes you away from the barriers of every day life.


He said: "Surfing is not a cure but a focus, a passion 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 think there suffice opportunities, we're an island, it simply takes a bit of get up and go. We lack a bit of inspiration but it's so gratifying."


CLIFF COX


With extraordinary added benefits for mind and body, Cliff Cox, previous two-times English Masters Champion turned surf instructor, credits his wellbeing to browsing, enjoying the method it keeps him young at 50.


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


"Surfing is remarkable both psychologically and physically - being out in the water you do not hesitate, it's an excellent little escapism.


"I certainly think browsing and swimming go hand in hand, it actually helps your swimming capability and confidence in the water."


SYDNEY MARKS


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


Sydney said: "For many years I have been under a little pressure, however on the water you forget everything.


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


"I might have a little less stamina and strength and be a little more cautious but you do it within your limits."


Lifeguard, 79, applauds swimming


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Pure Spirit Surf School


www.actionwatersports.co.uk


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