surf and turf. without the turf.

Halfway through the week!!  I think I can.  I think I can.  I think I can!

I think I CAN’T cook from the living room. 

Egg explosion yesterday.  Unfortunately this is all too common.

I start a project and then don’t finish it.  I start the microwave and forget to check in on it.

I redeemed myself by cooking a big pot of Dark Chocolate P.B. Chili (subbed in 99% lean ground chicken) and some Protein Cookie Balls!

(I can also roast vegetables!  Head over to Yes I Want Cake today for my new “How To” Series!)

So I’ve got a whole bunch of guest posts that I didn’t get to use while we were in Colorado.  For the next few Wednesdays, I’m going to use them. 

And take my free time to learn how to be a better egg microwaver lady.

Today, I introduce you to Christine, another fellow Fitfluential Ambassador! 

She makes surfing look easy! 

I’ve never been surfing, but after reading this, I’m INSPIRED to book a flight to Hawaii and hang ten.

Christine, my wallet hates you.  But my spirit wants to SURF!

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So you want to learn to surf….

Admit it. You have dreamt of riding a wave. You’ve thought about transforming into a chillaxed beach babe or bum, stoked on life, sun and surf. Surfing is on a lot of people’s bucket lists but it was never on mine. However, a trip to Costa Rica last April changed all of that.
What started off as “just a vacation” for me and my husband turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. After spending a week learning to surf, I came home completely in love with the sport and craving more. Catching a wave was euphoric; it made me feel happy and alive – kind of like a runner’s high only 100 times better. No joke.

Since returning home, I’ve have continued to surf in New York City. Now, I want everyone and anyone to get out on the water and try it. I know that surfing can seem intimidating. Here are 6 things you should know before jumping into the water.
1. “The best surfer in the water is the one having the most fun.”
This is something that my surf coach kept telling me over and over. Surfing is all about being in the moment and enjoying the ocean. Try not to take it too seriously or think about what surfing should feel or look like. Instead, just have fun.
2. You don’t have to be an athlete to surf but surfing will whip you into shape.
After a week, I could feel and see a difference in my arms, legs and core. Surfing definitely used muscles in ways that I wasn’t used to. Some things that will help prepare you for your time in the ocean are cardio, including swimming, and yoga. It’s important to note that you should have basic swimming skills and comfort in the water before really plunging into surfing.
3. It’s OK to stay in the whitewater.
There’s no need to rush to paddle out past where the waves break and catch unbroken waves. In fact, the whitewater (i.e. closer to shore where the waves have already broken) is a great place to learn and to get a feel for your surfboard. Once you become comfortable with your board and get the hang of popping up in the whitewater, then you can think about heading out the back.
4. If you’re a beginner, use a longboard.
Yes, they are heavy and big and don’t look as cool as short boards but long boards are easier to paddle and more stable. That means that they are easier to pop up on and ride.
5. If you fall, it’s just water.
You will fall into the water. You will drink a gallon of saltwater and water will go up you nose. But that’s OK. Everyone falls. When you do, try to stay relaxed. When I fall off my board, I start counting slowly to 10 and focus on finding my board which is attached to my ankle and floats. Usually, I’ve reached the surface before I reach 10.
6. Wear surf-appropriate gear.
The last thing you want to worry about when learning to surf is whether your swimsuit will fall off. For ladies, consider your bikini and make sure that it’s one that you can secure tightly. Wear a rash guard to prevent chafing. You may also consider wearing board shorts for an added level of comfort and confidence in the water.
Surfing is hard but it’s one of the most rewarding and amazing experiences I’ve ever had. If it’s on your bucket list or even if it’s not, I really hope that you all try it. I want to hear all about your experiences!!

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Christine is a freelance consultant, runner, yoga lover, wife and mom to two young boys and lives in Brooklyn who’s trying to find a healthy balance in life.

She’s also a new surfer and has become completely obsessed with the sport which kind of throws the balance thing off at times.

She writes the healthy living blog, Love, Life, Surf!