A study funded by the EMF seeks to quantify the health risks associated with surfing. After looking at the number and severity of injuries involved with 32 pro and amateur surfing contests worldwide, the researchers (some of whom are trained physicians) published a report stating that competitive surfing is safer than collegiate soccer or basketball.

To say that surfing (in general) is safer than soccer is total bullsiht. To be fair, though, the study does recognize the fact that contest surfing is much more controlled and generally safer than amateur surfing. In the past I’ve made it clear that I am not a doctor, but I’m going to go out on a limb and say that this study is far from being comprehensive. If they want a clear picture of the health risks associated with surfing, they should look to hospitals and life guards for data on the injuries that they treat. And while they’re at it, why not talk to these guys and count up all the illnesses that result from surfing in poopy water.

Here’s an article that covers the report.

Thanks, Starling Fitness