Surge to the finish
Adam Buckley is congratulated by his fiancée Ashley and his Surge teammates after winning the 2012 Catalina Classic Paddleboard race, a 32-mile, open ocean endurance event from Two Harbors on Catalina Island to the Manhattan Beach Pier. Photo
by Dr. Robert Portman
Australian scientists recently published a study measuring the physiological demands of surfing. Using GPS monitors fitted to professional surfers, the study found that surfing requires strong endurance, short bursts of intense activity and rapid recovery.
This combination of activity places enormous stress on the energy needs of muscle and brain cells. When energy stores are depleted, fatigue follows and surfing performance drops precipitously. Brain cell fatigue impacts alertness and reaction time. Muscle cell fatigue impacts endurance.
Unfortunately, the surfing environment does not permit easy refueling. Before heading out, surfers should consume a sports drink or an energy gel and water.
My company PacificHealth Laboratories pioneered development of fueling and recover products. We have recently developed a nutritional gel for surfers in partnership with Body Glove, a company synonymous with water sports.
Body Glove Surge is specifically designed for use while surfing and competing in other water sports. It eas
Dr. Robert Portman is an exercise scientist and author of Nutrient Timing and The Performance Zone. His latest book is Hardwired for Fitness.
ily fits in the pocket of your boardshorts. The all-natural gel contains a combination of protein, high-energy carbohydrates, caffeine from green tea and a specially developed blend of natural antioxidants. By providing both immediate and sustained energy, Body Glove Surge is the first product proven to delay the onset of brain and muscle fatigue.
Researchers at Montana State University conducted a study comparing Body Glove Surge to the leading ca
ffeinated energy shot. The results were impressive. Compared to the leading energy shot, athletes consuming Body Glove Surge had faster reaction times, increased muscle endurance and increased mental alertness. During the rigorous physical trial, they didn’t feel as fatigued. As might be expected this results led to better overall performance.Garrett McNamara, big wave world record holder, was one of the first surfers to evaluate Body Glove Surg
e.“I was skeptical until I tried it. But I found it to be an amazing product. I usually carry two Surges when I’m on the board. You feel the difference immediately.”
Surfers must pay attention to fueling to get the most out of every session. Surfing is a rigorous activity and new products such as Body Glove Surge can raise your surfing performance.DZ