Surf Warm-Up: Key to Enjoying More Time in the Water

Let us talk about something that is sometimes overlooked when we are desperate to get in the water: warming up before surfing. Here at Peña Txuri, on beloved Sopelana beach, we know from first-hand experience that a good warm-up can make the difference between an epic session and an untimely injury.

Why warm up before surfing?

Surfing is not just jumping on a board and sliding. We need to prepare our body for what is ahead. A good warm-up helps you prevent injuries, improve performance and, above all, enjoy the waves more. Here is how we do it at the school.

Benefits of warming up

• Improves flexibility: More flexible muscles allow you to move better and with more confidence on the board.
• Injury prevention: A proper warm-up helps avoid muscle strains and joint injuries.
• Increases circulation: Getting the blood flowing prepares your muscles for the effort ahead.
• Prepares your mind: A few minutes of warm-up can help you focus and centre yourself for the session.

How to warm up before surfing

1. Joint mobility

We start with joint mobility exercises. Here in Sopelana, we typically do neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle rotations. Controlled movements without rushing, preparing you for the turns and manoeuvres ahead.

2. Dynamic stretches

Dynamic stretches are key. The idea is to keep the body moving while stretching, raising body temperature and range of movement. You can do leg swings and gentle arm stretches.

• Leg swings: Forward and back to warm up the hips.
• Arm stretches: Circular movements to prepare the shoulders.

3. Core activation

The core is our centre of gravity. At Peña Txuri, we know a strong core gives you stability on the board. Do front planks, side planks and back bridges to activate it.

Peña Txuri tip: Do 1 to 2 sets of 20 seconds for each exercise. That is enough to activate yourself without exhausting yourself.

When to warm up

Always before getting in the water, but you can also warm up at home before heading to the beach. The important thing is to raise your body temperature and prepare your joints before paddling out.

Warming up is for everyone

It does not matter whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer — warming up is essential for everyone. As we always say at Peña Txuri, the best surfer is the one who looks after their body.

In short: do not skip the warm-up. Those five or ten minutes can save you from weeks out of the water with an injury. See you in the water — well warmed up and ready to go!