Functional Strength for Surfers: Staying Lean and Agile

So, I spend my weeks on a rig and my free time chasing waves whenever I can. I’ve been trying to build a better fitness routine that translates directly to surfing something that helps with balance on a shaky board and the endurance to catch more sets, without adding a bunch of extra muscle mass that might slow me down. I’m not looking to get huge; I just want to be stronger and more resilient in the water.

What kind of functional exercises have you all found useful? I’m curious about movements that mimic surfing demands, like rotational stability or explosive power from a low stance. Do you focus more on bodyweight stuff, or incorporate specific equipment like resistance bands or kettlebells? How do you balance this kind of training with actually getting in the water so one doesn’t interfere with the other? Any advice from fellow surfers would be awesome.