Surf for a tanned bodyJune 21, 2016

If you're a Sydneysider, then a tanned body is like a red bag of courage. In fact, the markings on your underwear reveal it. You're not the child of the sea if you haven't tried surfing. And there are five reasons.

National Surfing Day, which is held on June 20-21, is a promotion of the surfing lifestyle. This doesn't mean encouraging your female mates from other countries to hook up with a local surfer. It's rather surfing to keep a lean body. This activity also highlights the marine resources off Australia. If you're clueless about it, then it can mean two things. You've been living in the arid regions all your life. You haven't tried surfing, which is a shame. Don't be defensive about it, insisting that you're concerned about the precarious condition of the flora and fauna beneath the ocean's surface. You're veering off from the subject. You must see the sea to appreciate it. Swimming is one thing to do it, but there's something about surfing that is truly Australian. Again, it's not the lean, tanned body.

Here are five reasons to surf:

Surfing is more fun than swimming. Beginners will experience some discomfort, as they must rely on their torso to keep their balance on the surfboard. Unlike bicycling, the sea is in constant motion. If they don't keep still, then the surfboard will turn around. And they will find themselves in deep water. Don't be annoyed, as this is a part of the learning curve. Eventually, they will get the hang of it. They can't get enough of it. And they'll keep on doing it. As for swimming, they won't go through a phase of discomfort. (If they get tired, they can rest for a while. And then they try again.) But some would lose interest after a while. Competitive swimmers would say otherwise.

Vanity is a virtue. Not that overweight people can't surf, but it will require more effort on their part. It shouldn't be the case, as surfing can be thrilling like a rollercoaster ride. A lean body will cut out the work, so this means exercising and keeping an eye on your food intake. You'll do it on a daily basis. It can be challenging in the long run, but it can happen if you want it. Furthermore, a nice bod will elicit stares and reactions. You can't be more flattered.

A laidback lifestyle is the way to go. Any inhabitant of Oz is aware of it. This doesn't mean that Aussies are not workaholics, but there's nothing wrong about taking it slow and admiring the seaside. Otherwise, they could be missing a lot.

Surfers can be protective of the marine life. If they can't be vigilant about what is happening around, then those happy days of surfing are numbered. They must pay attention to the other beach bombers who might leave their litter behind. It can find itself in the middle of the sea. The only things they need are their swimming attire and surfboard. Don't forget sunblock.

The more surfers, the merrier. They can't find better company.

The sun beckons you. And then you notice the glistening sands. What are you waiting for?

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