Be sure to warm up your shoulders, lower back, and hips before you get in the water. Squat down with your feet and knees wide apart and let your bottom drop as close to the ground as possible. Place the backs of your upper arms against your knees and press your palms together to stretch the inner thighs and upper back. Relax your shoulders and lengthen your spine. Take a few deep breaths while you're sussing the surfing conditions. Then stand up and interlace your hands behind you to stretch your chest and shoulders.
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Tip courtesy of Peggy Hall, "Yoga for Surfers" instructor
Illustration: Catherine N. Baumhauer
