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 individuals of any ages - however with an aging population looking for brand-new methods of keeping healthy and fit there has been a surge in individuals over 50 using up browsing in Britain.


Think browsing and pictures of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair spring to mind however visit 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 males 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, people are revelling in the enjoyable and health advantages water sports can bring.


Like swimming, browsing is an accessible type of exercise and can be done by anybody no matter their age, weight, background or ability, alone or with their friends and family.


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


RICH EMERSON


Many males and females returning from the fronts face personal and psychological struggles, however as one British man has actually found, the sea can be a sanctuary.


Rich Emerson, a combat veteran, experiences PTSD (post distressing tension condition) and started Surf Action with buddy and browse partner Russ Pierre, to assist others like himself.


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


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


He said: "Surfing is not a remedy however a focus, an enthusiasm and an activity that requires determination, determination and above all the aspiration to succeed.


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


"I believe there are enough chances, we're an island, it simply takes a little get up and go. We lack a little bit of inspiration however it's so fulfilling."


CLIFF COX


With extraordinary included advantages for body and mind, Cliff Cox, former Masters Champion turned surf instructor, credits his health and 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 pleased 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 a good bit of escapism.


"I certainly think surfing and swimming go together, it really helps your swimming ability and confidence in the water."


SYDNEY MARKS


Sydney Marks who turns 80 in November is a firm believer that anyone can be included in anything on the water. He shows this theory by still water snowboarding once a week at Action Watersports in Kent.


Sydney stated: "Throughout the 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 bit of food and let the world pass you by.


"I may have a little less stamina and strength and be a bit more mindful 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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