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 - but with an aging population seeking new methods of keeping fit and healthy there has been a rise in over 50 taking up surfing in Britain.


Think surfing and images of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair occur however visit beaches all over Britain and you might be surprised to see a somewhat more fully grown 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 guys and women are physically inactive.


But at groups all over the nation, such as Newcastle's Silver Surfers - a surf club for the over 50s, people are savoring the enjoyable and health benefits water sports can bring.


Like swimming, browsing is an available form of exercise and can be done by anyone regardless of their age, weight, background or ability, alone or with their family and pals.


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 deal with individual and mental battles, but as one British guy has actually found, the sea can be a sanctuary.


Rich Emerson, a battle veteran, experiences PTSD (post distressing stress disorder) and began Surf Action with buddy and browse partner Russ Pierre, to assist others like himself.


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


Russ describes how surfing takes you far from the barriers of life.


He stated: "Surfing is not a cure but a focus, a passion and an activity that requires determination, determination and above all the aspiration to be successful.


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


CLIFF COX


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


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


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


"I definitely believe browsing and swimming work together, it truly helps your swimming capability and confidence in the water."


SYDNEY MARKS


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


Sydney said: "Over the years I have been under a little bit of pressure, however 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 may have a little less stamina and strength and be a bit more careful but you do it within your limits."


Lifeguard, 79, praises swimming


16 May 2011


BBC Big Splash


Roger Allsopp becomes earliest person to swim the English Channel


Pure Spirit Surf School


www.actionwatersports.co.uk


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