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 individuals over 50 using up surfing in Britain.


Think surfing and images of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair spring to mind but visit beaches all over Britain and you may be surprised to see a slightly more fully grown group of 'boarders' catching the early 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 nation, such as Newcastle's Silver Surfers - a surf club for the over 50s, individuals are enjoying the enjoyable and health advantages water sports can bring.


Like swimming, browsing is an accessible kind of exercise 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 told the Big Splash how taking to the water has assisted to keep them young.


RICH EMERSON


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


Rich Emerson, a fight veteran, suffers with PTSD (post distressing tension disorder) and started Surf Action with pal and browse partner Russ Pierre, to assist others like himself.


Surf Action is a social business specialising in surf treatment for hurt or mentally scarred previous servicemen.


Russ explains how browsing takes you away from the barriers of life.


He stated: "Surfing is not a treatment however a focus, a passion and an activity that requires determination, perseverance and above all the aspiration to prosper.


"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 bit of get up and go. We do not have a little inspiration but it's so gratifying."


CLIFF COX


With extraordinary included benefits for mind and body, Cliff Cox, previous two-times English Masters Champion turned browse trainer, credits his health and wellbeing to surfing, thrilling in the way it keeps him young at 50.


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


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


"I definitely think surfing and swimming go hand in hand, it actually helps your swimming ability and self-confidence in the water."


SYDNEY MARKS


Sydney Marks who turns 80 in November is a company believer that anyone can be involved 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 actually 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 food and let the world pass you by.


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


Lifeguard, 79, praises swimming


16 May 2011


BBC Big Splash


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Pure Spirit Surf School


www.actionwatersports.co.uk


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