Surf or Melt!

Back in my university days (man they seem so long ago now) one of my friends had a saying he'd blurt out quite often, "Surf or melt!" Believe it or not, this bit of lingo from a bunch of keg-partying, class-skipping, wanna-be surfers actually conveys a fundamental piece of fitness advice.

As with so many other sports, surfers can be quite fanatical. They will drop everything to get out on the waves when a good swell hits. They LOVE what they're doing (some would argue a little too much) but that's the point. Sometimes they will go to great lengths and overcome enormous obstacles just to catch a tasty wave with some buds as Jeff Spicoli would say. (If you've never seen Fast Times at Ridgemont High you won't get this reference).

One of the four key methods to sticking with an exercise program is to join a community that does an activity you like, or better yet, love to do. You often see runners, cyclists, and swimmers training together even though these events are usually competed in as individuals. I saw a very large group of swimmers at Kits Pool this morning at 6 a.m. as I ran by on my morning run. Personally I can't stand swimming lengths in a pool so hat's off to them.

But back to the community aspect. Find an activity you like and then find other people who like it and join up with them. There are plenty of options out there and in this age of the internet, its not too hard to find them. And if you can't find a group, create your own. You may end up being surprised at how many people will join you.

I used this idea and will be staring up a Ultra Fitness Hiking Club in July. We're going to do this on Weds. nights beginning July 9 and we'll be doing a different hike on the North Shore each week. I'll send out more details next week so watch for that if you're interested. FYI - we will NOT be doing the Grouse Grind; there's a lot more to the North Shore than just "the Grind".

In the meantime, get together with some friends do something active and enjoy your long weekend. I'm taking my buddy Edmo's advice to "Surf or melt" and am heading to Tofino for a few days of surf, sun and long walks on the beach with my girlfriend and dog.

C.

www.ultrafitness.net