One of the best exercise benefits associated with surfing is the improvement that it creates in your balance. In order to stay on the surfboard, you must have a strong ability to maintain your balance. This skill carries over into everyday life. While it may not appear to be especially important while you're young, having a good sense of balance is increasingly essential as you age. If you can create a good sense of balance while you're young, you will be able to maintain this ability as you age and protect yourself from falls, breaks and fractures.

Another good exercise benefit associated with surfing is an increase in your strength. This comes mostly from paddling your surfboard out into the ocean, and results in the increased muscle mass and strength in your arms, shoulders and chest. High muscle mass is important for a number of reasons. It increases your ability to do your activities of daily living. High muscle mass results in an increase in your metabolic rate, thereby increasing calorie burn over the course of the day. This can help you achieve weight loss goals, and can aid in the treatment and prevention of obesity.

Surfing can also help to increase your flexibility. Increased flexibility is important in that it can not only help to make you a better surfer, but can also aid in the prevention of injuries both on and off the surfboard. If you have a low degree of flexibility, and reach for something on a high counter, chances are that you will pull a muscle in your back. In contrast, if you have more flexibility, you will be able to reach that top shelf with ease.

One of the most important benefits associated with surfing is the improvement in your cardiovascular system. Your cardiovascular system is composed of your heart, as well as the veins and arteries that work to bring blood to and from the heart. Strengthening your cardiovascular system can help improve shortness of breath, fatigue and even prevent heart attacks. Research has found that the best way to improve your cardiovascular system is by participating in activities such as walking, swimming or surfing that stress your heart and the accessory organs.