ENDURANCE & OUTDOORS / EDUCATION
Mobility and recovery that matter
for Surfing.
Train paddling support, standing and patience between waves.


FIELD GUIDE / 04Move through useful ranges
Pallof press can be practiced slowly in a comfortable range. Press hands forward without letting the band turn you. Stop short of pain; extreme range is not the target.
Load is part of recovery
Shoulder load from paddling rises quickly after time off; return gradually. Sleep and sufficient food support adaptation; no recovery drill cancels a poorly balanced schedule.
A low-effort session
Walk or cycle gently for 10–20 minutes, then perform 1–2 easy sets of Pallof press and a comfortable breathing reset. Finish feeling ready for the next session.
Three movements to understand
These are examples of general physical preparation. Tap any movement for target muscles, setup, execution, common errors and an easier alternative.

Band row
Rhomboids, mid trapezius, lats and biceps. Anchor the band securely. Pull elbows toward ribs, pause and return with control.
FULL TECHNIQUE GUIDE ↗
Incline push-up
Pectoralis major, anterior deltoids and triceps. Place hands on a stable elevated surface; lower with your body in a straight line.
FULL TECHNIQUE GUIDE ↗
Low step-up
Quadriceps and glutes; calf muscles assist. Step onto a low stable platform and stand fully before stepping down slowly.
FULL TECHNIQUE GUIDE ↗Put this into your week
Two strength days and easy aerobic work around surf conditions. Build aerobic capacity with moderate, repeatable sessions.
Begin with a manageable session and record how it affects the next practice. If you can complete every set with sound form and recover well, add a repetition or modest resistance. If quality or recovery falls, reduce a set or move the session away from the hardest sport day.
Ocean reading and board technique need water time and qualified instruction. Shoulder load from paddling rises quickly after time off; return gradually.
Evidence and interpretation
General training evidence informs this guide. The sport-specific exercise choices are coaching applications; training response varies by person and season.
General education. Work within your ability and seek qualified advice for injury, symptoms, contact technique or return to play.
See five Surfing workouts →