A journalist who learned to surf years ago but struggled with fitness and confidence joined a SurfFit retreat in Saunton, Devon, led by big wave surfer Andrew Cotton and fitness coach Andrew Blake. The retreat aimed to improve surf fitness through circuits, sand dune training, and yoga.
The training included circuits with medicine balls, Pilates balls, and TRX equipment, featuring exercises like press-ups on a Pilates ball, burpees, and squat-throws. Each activity was performed for 30 seconds then 20 seconds, targeting neglected muscles such as inner legs and lower abs.
Sand dune training was described as the most brutal part, involving running and bunny hop relays up dunes. Cotton admitted he hates it but enjoys the challenge. Running on loose sand uses 20-60% more energy than road running and activates lower leg muscles with lower impact.
The retreat also offered surf-focused vinyasa and restorative yoga. The journalist reported sore abs days later, indicating the effectiveness of the regime. Cotton, who broke his back riding a 50ft wave at Nazaré in October, emphasised the importance of physical and mental resilience.
