It has been proven in many sports that visualization is a very powerful technique. Surfing is no exception. When we visualize ourselves going through the motions of an activity, it actually activates certain parts of the brain that are employed when we actually DO the activity.

Research has shown that visualization techniques definitely have the capability to improve an athlete's performance in certain situations.

It's Called Mindsurfing, Dude

Surfers have been doing this for ages--it's not really known as visualization among surfers, but rather as "mindsurfing." Surfers do it when they're just standing on the beach checking the surf, watching their friends, looking at surfing magazines, and watching surf videos. They picture themselves riding the wave, and what kinds of maneuvers they could pull off while on it.

Visualization techniques have an almost meditative quality. They help calm and relax, as well as refocus mental energies.

Employing Mindsurfing To Help Improve Your Surfing

Before you go surfing, try to mindsurf the waves for a few minutes. Picture what you want to do--for example, what surf move would you like to work on? Stronger cutbacks? Deeper bottom turns? Snappier off the tops? When you have a mindsurf session, employ as many different sensory inputs as you can. Imagine how your body feels as you're pulling off the move. Imagine the spray of the wave, and the roar of the tube behind you.

It might not surprise you to hear that watching surfing videos is another powerful way of mindsurfing. As you watch the videos, try to imagine yourself as the surfer on the wave. Think about how your body feels as you pull off the maneuvers you see in the video.

Mindsurfing carries multiple benefits, and it's a great way to improve your surf skills.