Effectiveness of surfing on psychological health in military members: a systematic review

Surfing, a leisure activity known for its positive physical and mental health effects, has emerged as a potential therapeutic intervention. This study aims to systematically review the available evidence on the effects of surfing on mental health in active military personnel and veterans.

Studies were searched across four electronic databases (MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, SportDiscus and Scopus) until May 2024. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database, Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies and the Quality Assessment Tool for Before-After Studies with No Control Group scales.

A total of seven studies met the inclusion criteria and were included. Depression and anxiety symptoms (n=7), positive affect (n=5) and pain (n=3) were the main outcomes analysed. Overall, the studies reviewed generally reported beneficial effects of surfing on depression, anxiety and positive affect. However, none of the four studies that examined pain as an outcome observed any positive effects of surfing.

There is evidence indicating that surfing may positively influence the management of anxiety, depression and overall positive affect among military personnel. Nonetheless, it cannot be definitively concluded that surfing provides superior benefits compared with other forms of exercise.