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Published on: January 28, 2020
Physiological demands of competitive surfing
Oliver R L Farley1, Nigel K Harris, Andrew E Kilding
1Sports Performance Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand. ollyfarley@hotmail.com
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|October 12, 2011
Summary
Competitive surfing involves intense paddling bursts and short recoveries. Surfing-specific conditioning should mimic this intermittent high-intensity profile for optimal athlete performance.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Surfing Performance Analysis
Background:
- Competitive surfing demands specific physiological attributes.
- Understanding the energy systems utilized in surfing is crucial for effective training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the performance metrics of competitive surfers.
- To inform the development of surfing-specific conditioning programs.
Main Methods:
- Twelve nationally ranked surfers were monitored using heart rate (HR) monitors and global positioning system (GPS) units during 2 sanctioned competitions.
- Video analysis was used to quantify time spent in different surfing activities (paddling, stationary, wave riding).
Main Results:
- Surfers spent the majority of time paddling (54% of total time).
- High-intensity paddling bouts were interspersed with short recovery periods.
- Mean heart rate was 139 bpm (64% HRmax), with peak HR reaching 190 bpm (87% HRmax).
Conclusions:
- Competitive surfing is characterized by intermittent high-intensity efforts and short recovery periods.
- Surfing-specific conditioning should replicate this intermittent exercise profile.
- Training programs should focus on developing the capacity for repeated high-intensity paddling bouts.
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