Home > Journals > IJARE > Vol. 9 > No. 1 (February 2015)
DOI
https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.09.01.04
Abstract
Low mechanical loading aquatic activities such as swimming and scuba diving have identified decreased bone mineral density (BMD); however, the effects of long-term surfing on bone health remains uninvestigated. This was a cross-sectional observational study with two groups: surfers (n = 11) with 40 years surfing experience and age and gender-matched sedentary controls (n = 10). Data collected included physical activity questionnaires, biomarkers, BMD, bone mineral content and body composition. Surfers demonstrated a significantly (p < 0.05) higher mean BMD in the arms (+18.8%), trunk (+26.1%), ribs (+27.2%), spine (+39.5%), and lumbar spine (+22.8%). Surfers also exhibited a significantly (p < 0.05) higher BMC in the arms, trunk, ribs, spine and pelvis. Surfers also had a significantly higher (p = .046) lean muscle mass in their arms (+16.8%). Our results indicate long-term participation in surfing is beneficial to bone health and maybe an ideal physical activity for middle-aged aquatic enthusiasts.
Recommended Citation
Climstein, Mike; Pollard, Zachary; Furness, James; Walsh, Joe; McLellan, Chris; and Meerkin, Jarrod
(2015)
"Effects of Long-Term Surfing on Bone Health in Mature-Aged Males,"
International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education: Vol. 9:
No.
1, Article 4.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.25035/ijare.09.01.04
Available at:
https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/ijare/vol9/iss1/4