Kitesurfing is an activity that has seen vast increases in its popularity lately. In fact, according to the sport’s acting governing body, participation figures are increasing faster than any other water-based sports. It is also one of the fastest growing extreme sports out of all of them also. If you’re thinking of getting into the sport however, you’ll need to get your body into shape. These main areas are where your fitness focus should be.
- Upper Body Strength. As areas of general fitness go, this has to be among those of greatest importance to train. The upper body is responsible for around 75% of the work load when you’re on the water and if you want any chance of staying in control, it is vital these muscles are conditioned. The main muscle group you need to work on are the deltoids (shoulder muscles). These are responsible for a lot of the movements and are also stabilising muscles. Also pay attention to the muscle of the upper back and the major pectorals
- Core Strength. because the sport is largely about moving your body around under dynamic force conditions, you body should have well developed core stabilizing muscles. One very good way to improve your overall core strength abilities is to use a core-stability ball. You will probably have to add weights into you core workouts though in order to replicate the strains you will experience whilst out on the water. Often the kite will want to pull you in a direction you do not want to go so it will be your developed core strength that will let you remain planted
- Aerobic Fitness. Although you might not associate the sport with aerobic fitness, your lungs and heart will need to be in shape. Because lots of different muscles will be called upon frequently, the energy systems will be calling for incredible amounts of oxygen and will be creating large amounts of lactic acid and carbon dioxide. You will feel the effects quite early on if you lungs and heart cannot feed the muscles with oxygen quickly enough and remove harmful bi-products at a steady rate. Swimming or jogging are both useful ways to boost up you cardiovascular fitness.
If you want to try sports like this get second hand kitesurfing gear and also hunt down second hand surfboards at Extreme Sports Trader