Silver Surfers Require To The Waves To Make Big Splash

20 September 2011


ByLivvy Barber & Harriet Webb
Big Splash


Swimming has long been seen as a sport for people of any ages - however with an aging population looking for 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 images of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair spring to mind however go to 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 browse club for the over 50s, people are revelling in the enjoyable and health advantages water sports can bring.


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


A group of water sport fanatics told the Big Splash how taking to the water has assisted to keep them young.


RICH EMERSON


Many males and women returning from the fronts face individual and mental battles, but as one British guy has discovered, the sea can be a sanctuary.


Rich Emerson, a battle veteran, suffers with PTSD (post distressing tension disorder) and began Surf Action with good friend and surf partner Russ Pierre, to assist others like himself.


Surf Action is a social business in surf therapy for hurt or psychologically scarred former servicemen.


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


He stated: "Surfing is not a treatment but a focus, a passion and an activity that needs decision, determination and above all the goal to succeed.


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


"I think there suffice chances, we're an island, it simply takes a little bit of get up and go. We lack a bit of motivation however it's so satisfying."


CLIFF COX


With amazing added benefits for mind and body, Cliff Cox, former two-times English Masters Champion turned browse instructor, credits his health and wellbeing to surfing, enjoying the method it keeps him young at 50.


Cliff described: "Being out in the ocean maximizes all the feeling, you go home a delighted camper at the end of the day.


"Surfing is remarkable both psychologically and physically - being out in the water you feel complimentary, it's a good little bit of escapism.


"I absolutely think browsing and swimming go together, it actually helps your swimming capability and self-confidence in the water."


SYDNEY MARKS


Sydney Marks who turns 80 in November is a company follower that anyone can be included in anything on the water. He shows this theory by still water skiing when a week at Action Watersports in Kent.


Sydney said: "Throughout the years I have actually been under a bit of pressure, but on the water you forget whatever.


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


Lifeguard, 79, praises swimming


16 May 2011


BBC Big Splash


Roger Allsopp ends up being oldest individual to swim the English Channel


Pure Spirit Surf School


www.actionwatersports.co.uk


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