Surfing is a fun and challenging sport that can take a lot out of you. That's why it's important to make sure you're eating the right foods and drinking the right beverages.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best foods and drinks for beginner surfers.
We'll also talk about how important it is to refuel after surfing, and when is the best time to eat before a surf session.
As you might already know, Southwest Surf House is famous for the breakfast and dinners that we serve.
They're creative, interesting and accommodating of all diets. Plus, they're made by a professional chef using seasonal ingredients (when possible), so you know they're good for you.
Whether you're a beginner surfer or an experienced pro, make sure to read this article! It’ll help you surf for longer when you're visiting the southwest of France.
What nutrients do beginner surfers need?
Surfing is a sport that anyone regardless of weight or fitness level can enjoy.
This means it’s perfect for someone just starting to get back into shape or for those of you seeking an activity that's adventurous and good for stimulating weight loss.
Contrary to popular belief, surfing doesn’t burn a tonne of calories – the number being around 300-400 per hour. However, because of the active nature of the sport and the fact that you’re constantly using your arms, legs, core and back muscles, you need to get the right nutrients if you want to surf all day (and party at night).
The most important nutrients for surfers include:
· Protein
· Fats (saturated fats in moderation)
· Carbohydrates
· Potassium
· Sodium
· Magnesium
· Calcium
· Iron
· Zinc
· Copper
What are the best foods for surfers to eat before a surf session?
Just like any athlete, surfers need to eat a balanced and healthy diet.
The best foods for surfers to eat before a surf session are those that are high in carbohydrates and protein.
Carbs provide energy for endurance activities, while protein helps muscles recover after being used. Some good examples of pre-surf food options include:
· Fruits
· Vegetables
· Whole-grain toast
· Oatmeal
· Yogurt
· Eggs
· Salmon
· Chicken
Just remember not to overindulge, as you don't want to feel sluggish when paddling out.
Also, don't eat a heavy meal right before surfing, as this can lead to cramping and an upset stomach. We recommend waiting at least an hour after eating before hitting the waves.
What are the best beverages for surfers to drink before a surf session?
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to choosing the best beverage for surfers to drink before a surf session.
Many of our past guests agree that staying hydrated is the most important factor, so drinks with plenty of water are always a good choice.
Sports drinks such as Gatorade or Powerade can also help replace electrolytes lost through sweat.
In addition, some people believe that drinking coffee or tea before surfing can help energise the body and improve performance, while others recommend avoiding caffeine altogether before hitting the waves.
Ultimately, it's up to each surfer to experiment with different beverages and find what works best for them. However, water is always a good choice.
How much water should you be drinking each day
It's true that nothing feels better than a post-surf beer, but water is actually the best beverage for surfers.
Staying hydrated is key to maintaining energy and preventing cramps while surfing.
It will also help you stay focused during your lessons and prevent you from tiring too easily. As for the recommended amount of water to drink each day, that really depends on the person.
A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces, so if you weigh 150 pounds, you should be drinking 75 ounces of water per day.
If it's particularly hot and you've been surfing all day though, you might want to up that amount. Essentially, if you're thirsty then you need to drink more water.
Also, have a few glasses of water before you crack your first beer or pour yourself a glass of wine in the afternoon.
It might just be the secret to beating a red wine headache!
How important is it to refuel after surfing?
After a long day of surfing, the last thing you want to do is worry about cooking a meal. But the truth is, your body needs refuelling after a strenuous workout.
The good news is that we prepare all of our meals fresh here at Southwest Surf House, so you can just sit back, relax and get your feed on!
Check out our Instagram account for photos of our latest dishes. Everything is made using the best local and seasonal ingredients. This means that you're only putting good stuff into your body (which is exactly what you need after or before a day of riding waves).
Of course, if you ever feel like a midday snack, there are heaps of places in Capbreton and Hossegor that do amazing meals, such as Le Surfing.
Just make sure to get something that will give you sustained energy, like a wrap with chicken and avocado or a salmon salad. And of course, don't forget to stay hydrated!
Drinking plenty of water is essential for any surfer, beginner or otherwise.
What are the benefits of eating healthy while on holiday
It’s no secret that vacationing can be a time of overindulgence. But if you want to surf your best (and counteract the effects of all that excellent red vino), it’s important to make healthy eating a priority while you’re away.
Here are five benefits of eating healthy while on holiday:
1. You'll be able to surf for longer (that's why you're here... right?)
2. Your energy levels will be more stable and even throughout the day
3. You'll actually feel healthier while on holiday
4. You'll look forward to your next meal
5. You'll go home much fitter (and happier) than when you arrived
The dangers of not eating properly before a surf session
When you don't eat properly before a surf session, you're more likely to experience fatigue.
This can lead to diminished performance and an increased risk of injury. The last thing we want is for you to be hurt while surfing! So make sure to refuel your body with the proper nutrients before heading out to the waves.
Grab one of our healthy breakfasts and make sure you're around for the family dinner at night. You'll then be ready for the day ahead or to wake up early and hit the waves.
Our top 10 tips for eating healthy while on holiday
Let's face it... when you’re on holiday, you tend to eat and drink whatever you want. And that usually means decadent desserts, fried food and alcohol. But your body needs healthy foods too to keep up with fun activities like surfing.
This doesn't mean you should be eating less. All it means is that you should eat more of the good stuff and less of the bad. Here are our top tips for eating healthy while on holiday:
1. Plan ahead and bring snacks with you when you're travelling. This will help you avoid unhealthy options when you're out and about
2. Avoid eating heavy meals before hitting the waves - save those for afterwards instead!
3. Opt for lean protein sources like fish, chicken or tofu, as well as plenty of fruits and vegetables
4. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and low-sugar drinks like herbal tea or black coffee
5. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can leave you feeling tired and sluggish
6. Make sure to refuel after a surf session with healthy snacks and a nutritious meal
7. Try to avoid eating processed foods, as they can be high in unhealthy fats and salt
8. If you're eating out, choose restaurants that offer healthy options
9. Avoid drinking too much alcohol while on holiday, as it can dehydrate your body and make it harder to surf the next day
10. Remember that balance is key - it's ok to indulge in some unhealthy foods every now and then! Just make sure to eat plenty of healthy meals too
In saying all this, we want you to enjoy your holiday and have fun. So don't feel bad if you indulge in a delicious French pastry or have a few drinks to celebrate a perfect day of surfing.
That's what going on holiday is all about!
Just make sure to eat plenty of our home-cooked, healthy meals from Southwest Surf House too and you'll be fine.
Also, keep in mind that we can prepare meals based on your dietary requirements if you're allergic to a particular food type or you have a specific intolerance, so don't be afraid to ask us about this when you book your stay.
We hope this article has helped you understand a bit more about nutrition for beginner surfers.
Remember, it's important to refuel your body with the proper nutrients before and after hitting the waves and (most importantly) have a ripper of a good time!
Southwest Surf House is the perfect place to do just that. We offer delicious, healthy meals as well as plenty of surfing to keep you entertained.
