Silver Surfers Take To The Waves To Make Big Splash

20 September 2011


ByLivvy Barber &
Big Splash


Swimming has long been viewed as a sport for people of all ages - but with an aging population seeking brand-new methods of keeping fit and healthy there has actually been a rise in people over 50 taking up browsing in Britain.


Think browsing and images of tanned-teens with sun bleached hair spring to mind however check out beaches all over Britain and you might be amazed to see a somewhat more mature group of 'boarders' catching the early morning wave.


By 2012, it is anticipated 41% of the population in Britain will be over 50. According to the Active People Survey 40% of these males and females are physically inactive.


But at groups all over the nation, such as Newcastle's Silver Surfers - a surf club for the over 50s, people are revelling in the enjoyable and health benefits water sports can bring.


Like swimming, browsing is an available kind of exercise and can be done by anyone despite their age, weight, background or ability, alone or with their household and buddies.


A group of water sport enthusiasts told the Big Splash how requiring to the water has assisted to keep them young.


RICH EMERSON


Many guys and females returning from the fronts deal with individual and mental struggles, but as one British guy has actually discovered, the sea can be a sanctuary.


Rich Emerson, a battle veteran, experiences PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) and started Surf Action with good friend and surf partner Russ Pierre, to help others like himself.


Surf Action is a social business specialising in browse treatment for injured or mentally scarred former servicemen.


Russ describes how browsing takes you far from the barriers of day-to-day life.


He said: "Surfing is not a remedy but a focus, an enthusiasm and an activity that requires decision, perseverance and above all the goal to prosper.


"However, forgetting all that, it is enjoyable, it makes you smile.


"I think there suffice chances, we're an island, it simply takes a little bit of get up and go. We lack a little motivation but it's so satisfying."


CLIFF COX


With remarkable added benefits for body and mind, Cliff Cox, former two-times English Masters Champion turned browse trainer, credits his wellness to browsing, enjoying the way it keeps him young at 50.


Cliff described: "Being out in the ocean maximizes all the emotion, you go home a pleased camper at the end of the day.


"Surfing is remarkable both mentally and physically - being out in the water you feel free, it's an excellent little bit of escapism.


"I certainly believe browsing and swimming work together, it really assists your swimming capability and self-confidence in the water."


SYDNEY MARKS


Sydney Marks who turns 80 in November is a company believer that anyone can be involved in anything on the water. He proves this theory by still water snowboarding when a week at Action Watersports in Kent.


Sydney said: "Over the years I have been under a bit of pressure, however on the water you forget everything.


"We go on the lake for the day with the kids with a little bit of food and let the world pass you by.


"I may have a little less endurance and strength and be a bit more careful but you do it within your limits."


Lifeguard, 79, praises swimming


16 May 2011


BBC Big Splash


Roger Allsopp ends up being earliest individual to swim the English Channel


Pure Spirit Surf School


www.actionwatersports.co.uk


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