The biggest dangers in surfing and how to avoid them

2 years back Kesia Araujo 14 minutes reading time

Surfing is an exciting sport that attracts millions of surfers in Brazil. But, like any extreme sport, it carries risks that cannot be ignored. Surfing safety is essential to enjoy the waves without worry.

Surfing risks

Surfing is an exciting sport, but it brings with it dangers in surfing that deserve attention. Beginners and experienced surfers alike should be aware of the risks to ensure safe and enjoyable surfing.

The main dangers include drowning, collisions, and injuries. In Brazil, more than 5,700 drowning deaths are recorded annually, making it the second leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 4. Surfing accidents can result in bruises, cuts, and even fractures.

To minimize risks, it's essential to follow safety rules and use appropriate equipment. SOBRASA's "SURF+SAFE" program aims to provide greater safety for surfers, recommending that instructors hold "SURF-SALVA PRO" certification.

Injury	Symptoms	Prevention
Bruises	Pain, swelling, skin changes	Use of adequate protection
Courteous	Swelling, redness, risk of infection	Avoid sharp objects in the sea
Concussions	Changes in memory, concentration and balance	Use of helmet

Appropriate equipment for safe surfing

Surfing safely requires proper equipment. The surfboard is the most important item. In Brazil, with around 3 million surfers, choosing the right board is crucial. There are three main types: Shortboard, Funboard, and Longboard. Selection depends on the surfer's level and the sea conditions.

A leash, or cord, is essential. It keeps the board attached to the surfer, preventing loss and making it easier to get back on after a fall. The wax on the front of the board and the rubber deck on the back help prevent slipping, reducing the risk of accidents.

A wetsuit is essential in cold waters. It prevents hypothermia by maintaining a stable body temperature. It also protects against jellyfish stings, which are responsible for nearly 101,000 deaths in 30 surfing accidents.

Other protective equipment includes helmets and earplugs. Beginners should consider using softboards, which reduce the risk of injury in the event of an impact. The accident rate is 6.6 per 1,000 hours of surfing, making protection crucial.

Sunscreen is another vital item. Safe Sea®, with SPF 50, offers up to 97% of protection for 80 minutes in the water. It's the only certified "Friend of the Sea" sunscreen, making it safe for the marine environment.

Equipment	Function	Importance
Surfboard	Glide over the waves	Essential
Leash	Keeping the board attached to the surfer	Indispensable
Wetsuit	Thermal and jellyfish protection	Very important
Sunscreen	Protection against rays UV	Crucial

Surfing Dangers: Sea Conditions and Weather

Surfing is an exciting sport, but it requires careful attention to sea and weather conditions. Swells and ocean currents are crucial factors for surfer safety. It's essential to analyze the size and type of wave before entering the water.

Rip currents pose a significant risk. They can reach speeds exceeding 3 m/s, surpassing the Olympic swimming record. These currents are responsible for most beach drownings and can extend hundreds of meters.

Storms are another danger to consider. Avoid surfing on days with bad weather forecast, as there's a risk of being struck by lightning. In Brazil, about 100 people have died from lightning strikes in the last 15 years, mostly during the summer.

Watch for sudden weather changes
Be prepared to get out of the water quickly.
Respect lifeguard signs

Studies show that 80% of surf beach rescues occur outside areas marked by safety flags. Following the recommended measures can reduce the chance of serious surfing accidents by up to 90%.

Coastal pollution is also a concern. Surfers are more likely to contract infections from antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Pay attention to water quality and avoid surfing in polluted areas to protect your health.

Priority rules and etiquette in surfing

Surfing is a sport practiced by millions of Brazilians, with approximately 35 million fans in the country. Despite its popularity, there are no formal written rules governing the recreational practice. However, most surfers adhere to a set of unwritten rules known as the surfing code of conduct.

This code establishes essential guidelines to ensure safety and respect among surfers. One of the most important rules is to respect the priority of those closest to the wave's breaking point. This means not "droppinning," or not entering the wave of another surfer who already has priority.

Wait your turn in the wave queue
Keep a safe distance from other surfers
Share waves that break both ways
Avoid paddling through the area where someone is surfing
Know your limitations as a surfer

Respect among surfers is essential to creating a harmonious and safe environment on the beaches. By following these rules, everyone can enjoy the sport in a fun and responsible way. Remember: surfing is predominantly a recreational activity, and the main goal is to enjoy the waves and nature.

Safe falling and diving techniques

Surfing is a thrilling sport, but falls are inevitable. Learning safe diving and falling techniques is essential to prevent serious injuries. Protecting your head should be your top priority when falling off your board.

Never dive headfirst into shallow water. It's difficult to gauge depth or the presence of submerged objects. When falling, protect your head with your arms crossed. This simple technique can prevent traumatic brain injury.

When exiting your board after catching a wave, do so gently. This is especially important in shallow waters. Avoid jumping off your board in shallow water to avoid injuring your knees or feet.

Cross your arms over your head when you fall
Avoid diving headfirst into shallow water
Carefully step off your board after catching a wave.
Don't jump off your board in shallow water.

Remember, safety comes first. With practice and attention, you can enjoy surfing while minimizing the risk of injury. Master these falling techniques and safe diving to enjoy the waves with confidence and tranquility.

Physical preparation and warm-up before surfing

Surfing fitness is essential to safely and effectively enjoy the waves. A well-executed pre-surf warm-up can make all the difference in your session. Studies show that prepared surfers are less likely to suffer injuries and perform better in the water.

The pre-surf warm-up is divided into two stages. First, a general warm-up, with continuous movements like short runs and jumping jacks. Then, a specific warm-up, simulating surfing maneuvers. This preparation increases muscle temperature, improves coordination, and prepares the body for action.

Stretching is a crucial part of your routine. It maintains flexibility and improves wave performance. Focus on stretching your shoulders, thighs, legs, and spine. Remember: a flexible body is less prone to injury during intense surf maneuvers.

“The pre-surf warm-up raises heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen consumption, which are essential for dealing with sea conditions.”

The Preparasurf project offers fitness programs for surfers of all ages. With over 3 million surfers in Brazil, investing in physical preparation is crucial for healthy and safe surfing. Don't neglect warming up, especially in winter, when your body needs extra care.

Remember: a good pre-surf warm-up not only reduces the risk of injury but also improves your performance in the waves. Prepare properly and enjoy the best surfing has to offer!

Common Surfing Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Surfing is a thrilling sport, but it can be risky. A study of 151 surfers revealed 306 injuries, 246 of which were acute. The most common surfing injuries are lacerations (46.41 T3T), contusions (10.11 T3T), and sprains (8.21 T3T). The head and lower limbs are the most affected areas.

Muscle overload is common, especially in the shoulders. The study showed that 83,33% of tendinopathy cases occur in this region. To prevent injuries, it's crucial to maintain good physical conditioning and perform regular stretching exercises.

Preventing surfing injuries starts with using proper equipment. Most acute injuries (53.3%) occur from collisions with the surfboard itself. Choosing an appropriate surfboard and wearing protective gear can reduce this risk.

Specific training is essential. Lack of professional guidance increases the risk of injury. Surfers who surf in larger waves are more likely to suffer serious injuries. Knowing your limits and respecting ocean conditions are essential for safety.

Type of Injury	Percentage
Lacerations	46,4%
Bruises	10,1%
Sprains	8,2%
Fractures	8,2%

Remember, prevention is the best strategy. Practice correct techniques, respect your body's limits, and stay in shape. This way, you'll be able to enjoy surfing more safely and for longer.

Sun protection and skin care while surfing

Sun exposure while surfing is intense and dangerous. Surfers are three times more likely to develop melanoma than the general population. Therefore, the use of sunscreen for surfing is essential.

The ideal sunscreen for surfers should have SPF 60+ and be waterproof. Reapply every two hours to maintain protection. Choose physical sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which form a barrier against the sun's rays.

Skin care goes beyond sunscreen. Wear UV-protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses when out of the water. A healthy diet also helps keep your skin resilient.

Protector Type	Recommended Use
Stick	Face
Cream	Shoulders and back
Spray	Large areas

Consult a dermatologist for personalized guidance on skin care while surfing. Remember: prevention is better than cure when it comes to skin health while surfing.

Getting to know the surf spot and its peculiarities

Know the surf spots is essential for safety. When arriving at a new beach, pay attention to warning signs about restrictions, currents, and fishing seasons. Talk to local surfers or lifeguards for information about beach conditions.

Brazil offers a variety of waves for surfers of all levels. Beach breaks are the most popular and safest for beginners. Point breaks, such as Praia da Silveira in Santa Catarina, offer stable waves. Reef breaks, such as Praia do Forte in Bahia, are ideal for intermediate surfers.

Before entering the water, analyze the sea and identify the best conditions for your skill level. Mark landmarks on land to orient yourself in the water and understand the impact of currents and wind on your positioning.

Stay alert to local weather information. In the last 15 years, about 100 people have died in Brazil from lightning, according to the National Institute for Space Research. The risk increases in the summer, when storms hit crowded beaches.

Remember surfing etiquette: those closest to the breaking wave have priority. Avoid diving headfirst when jumping off your board, especially if you're unfamiliar with the depth of the area.

Knowing the specifics of each surf spot is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Respect the beach conditions, follow local guidelines and enjoy responsibly.

Conclusion

Surfing safety is essential to enjoying this exciting sport. With surfing growing in Brazil and around the world, adopting responsible practices to prevent accidents is crucial. Renowned surfers like Gabriel Medina and Felipe Toledo inspire new surfers, but it's essential to remember the risks involved.

Preventing surfing accidents starts with knowing the location. In Porto Alegre, for example, the future professional wave pool will offer a controlled environment for surfing. On natural beaches, it's important to be aware of sea conditions, avoid areas with sharks, and wear appropriate protective gear.

Surfing responsibly includes taking care of your health. Prolonged sun exposure can cause skin problems, so it's crucial to use sunscreen and UV-protective clothing. Additionally, strengthening and stretching exercises help prevent common shoulder, knee, and back injuries.

Remember: surfing safety is a shared responsibility. Avoid surfing alone, respect locals and other surfers, and always be prepared for the ocean conditions. With these practices, you can enjoy the waves safely and enjoyably.

FAQ

What are the main risks of surfing?

The main risks include drowning, collisions with boards or other surfers, injuries from falling or impact with the seabed, and excessive sun exposure.

Why is it important to use proper equipment when surfing?

Using appropriate equipment, such as a board compatible with your technical level, leash, wetsuit and protection, is essential for safety and injury prevention.

What are the hazards related to sea and weather conditions?

It is important to be aware of the size and type of waves, ocean currents, tidal variations, and the possibility of storms and lightning.

Why is it important to respect the rules of priority and etiquette in surfing?

Respecting the rules of priority and the code of conduct among surfers is essential to avoid accidents and conflicts in the water.

How to practice safe falling and diving techniques in surfing?

Never dive headfirst, protect your head with your arms when falling, and avoid jumping into shallow water. Learn proper techniques to prevent serious injuries.

Why are physical preparation and warm-up important in surfing?

Good physical preparation and a proper warm-up help prevent muscle and joint injuries common in surfing.

What are the most common surfing injuries and how can you prevent them?

The most common injuries involve shoulders, spine, knees, and lacerations. Prevention includes physical conditioning, proper equipment, respecting limits, and practicing good techniques.

Why is sun protection so important for surfers?

Surfers are exposed to the sun and light reflection in the water for long periods of time, requiring the use of high SPF sunscreen, UV-protective clothing, and skin hydration.

Why is it important to know the surf spot well?

Knowing the specific characteristics and conditions of each surfing spot, such as restrictions, the presence of sharks and currents, is crucial for surfers' safety.

Sports