Balance Training Makes a Difference for Two Maui Windsurfers

Balance Training Makes a Difference for Two Maui Windsurfers

Whether you’re carving off the lip or throwing a forward loop, we’ve all had those days where crazy landings or a gust or lack of wind can really throw you off balance and into the water.

My two clients and good friends, Mike Abrams of Pukalani and Tim Ellison, owner of Polli’s Mexican Restaurant in Makawao, both windsurf  just about everyday even after an intense training session. They’ve been kind enough to share a few of the things we do in the studio that transfers directly to the success and performance on the water.

Tim, pictured here loves to sail on the outside of Kanaha quite a ways out and knows that sometimes those jibes aren’t going to be full of wind. With all of the balance training we do he writes: “I must tell you though, what a great session I had yesterday. I can already feel the improvement in my balance,and what a difference it makes. I am even more excited about working with you as I can see the difference already!”

Here, Tim is working on independent leg strength and balance at the same time. The equipment we’re using here is called the INDO Board on top of the inflatable disc, made by INDO Board, called the Gigante.

I feel it’s important to to allow each leg work out the different finite muscles and the supportive muscles that support the hip, knee and ankle joint simultanouesly. Tim is incredibly focused and I often have to stop breaking studio records and move onto the next challenge.

Tim shows up ready to bring it each and every training session three times a week. If you’re sailing on the water, you’ll be sure to notice him with his smooth style and incredible balance!

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Now Mike Abrams, also a regular at Kanaha, (click here see his article and extra action photos) really loves a balance challenge too. Balancing on a stability ball with your knees takes lots of practice, determination and focus. For Mike, it’s like nothing new. BUT, when we ad a 8 lb medicine ball, everything changes. If you’re just starting out on this move, be sure you practice near a stable object like a treadmill or stationary bike-something to hold onto.

Balance training should be an integral part of your regular routine no matter what sport  you enjoy, or even if you’re just reentering fitness at any level. Having good reaction skills can prevent injuries and unwanted down-time. You don’t have to have fancy equipment like this to make the best of your balance training.

Carve harder, last longer on the water with stronger legs, and get your balance game on! Order all the gear here:

 

For example, just simply stand on one foot with your knee bent softly and  your knee tracking over your second toe. Use a long mirror to see how your body performs and to que yourself. If you like, take a dumb bell and  hold it out in front of you and then move from side to side and see how you can control your positon.

Tim and Mike, a big thank you to you for sharing your talents and your experience with everyone! See you on the water.

For more tips and if you’d like to be trained by a professional, I’m happy to help. Call me at 808-283-2121 or visit my webiste at https://suzietrainsmaui.com   You don’t have to be a windsurfer like Mike or Tim to benefit from balance training.

For more balance tips, check out other articles I’ve written : https://www.athleta.net/chi/2010/04/15/the-new-wave-of-balance-training/

and https://suzietrainsmaui.com/2010/02/quick-reactions-and-good-balance-can-make-a-better-stand-up-paddler-by-suzie-cooney-of-suzie-trains-maui/

You can also follow me on Face Book: https://www.facebook.com/suzietrainsmaui.

In good health and Aloha,

Suzie Cooney, CPT