The fitness benefits of surfing are endless. It helps develop upper and lower body strength, flexibility and balance, and constant paddling provides a great cardio workout. Not only that, but it provides you with a sense of peace.

Amanda Stanec, an assistant professor of physical education in the school of education at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, N.S., says surfing provides not only health-related physical fitness, but also many psychosocial benefits. “While people are improving their core strength, balance and muscular strength through paddling and riding waves, they’re also extremely focused on that next wave, the timing of catching the wave, and the joy of riding it.” It requires focus in the present moment—everything else has to fall away—similar to yoga, and other activities that provide many emotional and mental-health benefits.