Surfing After 50: The Granny Grommets Group

Are you looking for new ways to challenge yourself this Summer? There comes a point in life when we all need to find something that brings us joy, fulfilment and thrill. For some midlife women, surfing has become the perfect hobby for the mind, body, and soul. Certainly, for the Granny Grommets, it’s a way to boost their confidence, too.

A strong group of bodysurfing senior women, aged between 50- 83, has taken on legendary status at Middleton Beach in Albany (Australia). Trained by Tony Harrison, the local surf guru, they have been meeting every Friday morning to hit the waves since 1999, discovering a wonderful sense of freedom.

Comprising more than 70 members, the Granny Grommets group is open to any midlife women as long as they follow three simple rules: they must be over 50 years of age, know basic surf lifesaving skills, and, most importantly, be willing to laugh.

Surely, the Granny Grommets can provide great inspiration to all of us, proving that age is never an excuse to not do something one desires to do. Even if it means doing something for the first time.

So, if you are looking for new hobbies this summer, look no further. Surfing might be challenging at first but it guarantees many benefits, too.

The feeling of riding a wave is like no other, and it’s easy to see why may one become addicted to the sport. The surfing community is also very welcoming and supportive, making it a great way to make new friends and connect with like-minded individuals, plus, this sport is not just about getting a good workout. It’s also a great way to improve your mental health. 

The sound of the waves, the feeling of the sun on your skin, and the sense of freedom that comes from being out in the ocean all contribute to a sense of calm and relaxation. 

Overcoming the Fear of Surfing

You might argue doing something you have never done before can be scary and intimidating (especially the idea of being out in the open water). But if you’ve got the guts to swim in cold water after 50, you’ll probably have no problems embracing this challenge, too. With the right mindset and preparation, anyone can learn to surf, regardless of age or fitness level.

According to experts, when you are over 50 the key to overcoming fear is to start small and build your confidence gradually. Take a few lessons with a qualified instructor and start on small waves. As you build your skills and confidence, you can gradually work your way up to bigger waves and more challenging conditions.

It’s also important to remember that fear is a natural part of the surfing experience. Every surfer experiences fear at some point, whether it’s the fear of wiping out or the fear of getting caught in a rip current. 

So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, Granny Grommets remind us that there’s always something new to learn and discover in the world of surfing (and in life!). Every wave is different, and every session presents a new set of challenges. Learning to navigate these challenges can help you build courage and perseverance. And because surfing is a sport that requires you to be in the moment, it can help you develop a sense of flow and creativity that can carry over into other areas of your life.

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