Silver Surfers Take 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 any ages - however with an ageing population seeking new methods of keeping fit and healthy there has been a rise in individuals over 50 taking up surfing in Britain.


Think surfing and pictures of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair spring to mind but check out beaches all over Britain and you may be shocked to see a slightly more fully grown group of 'boarders' capturing the early 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 ladies are physically non-active.


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


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


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


RICH EMERSON


Many males and ladies returning from the fronts deal with individual and mental struggles, but as one British man has 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 enterprise specialising in browse therapy for hurt or mentally scarred previous servicemen.


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


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


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


"I think there are enough chances, we're an island, it just takes a little bit of get up and go. We lack a little inspiration but it's so rewarding."


CLIFF COX


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


Cliff described: "Being out in the ocean maximizes all the emotion, you go home a delighted 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 little escapism.


"I certainly believe surfing and swimming go hand in hand, it really 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 associated with anything on the water. He proves this theory by still water snowboarding once a week at Action Watersports in Kent.


Sydney stated: "Throughout the years I have been under a little 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 might have a little less stamina and strength and be a little more careful however you do it within your limits."


Lifeguard, 79, applauds swimming


16 May 2011


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Pure Spirit Surf School


www.actionwatersports.co.uk


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