Interview with International Pro Surfer Sally Fitzgibbons
At first glance, it’s evident she’s an unmistakably fit beauty, but wait, there’s even more than meets the eye when it comes to this world renowned international pro surfer (read her bio).
Check out what Sally Fitzgibbons had to say about being a surfing genius, get some of her secret fit tips and find out how she nails staying fit, fierce and fabulous on the waves.
How did you get your start with surfing?
At what point did you realize you had a passion for it?
SF: I did a lot of sports growing up including soccer, touch football, cross country running, athletics and surfing. I loved all of them for different reasons. When your dream is something you are truly passionate about nothing can get in your way or slow you down. If you want to achieve your goal as I do with my surfing, the focus is naturally there and you are trying to figure out how you can continue to improve. Surfing just picked me in the end but it wasn’t until I was about 16 that I concentrated fully on the sport.
What do you do to prepare for a competition? Do you have a special exercise routine?
SF: Surfing is quite unique, it’s not really seasonal as the competitive season runs most of the year with only a short break over January. My training regime has to be very flexible due to all the travel, but it’s all about finding the balance of my time training in the water and on land. I’m always evolving my training programs, discovering new things, pushing things to the next level to become a stronger athlete. I always adapt my sessions to suit the environment I’m in, its so important to utilize your surroundings and natural elements. I like to train every day even when I have other commitments.
Do you have a special diet when you’re competing or does it stay pretty much the same year around? What does your diet include?
SF: Diet and nutrition is hard to strictly maintain when on the road. It is all about selecting the best options at the time where ever I am in the world. Being Lactose intolerant is my only restriction so mostly my diet comprises of raw foods, fruit and vegetables and to that I add quality proteins and a variety of different soups. Remember to always take time to treat yourself with your favorite foods no matter what that might be. It is important to find the balance that works for you.
How do you keep yourself motivated?
SF: I’ve had the ultimate goal of becoming World Champion from such a young age and feel I want to leave no stone unturned in my journey to achieving my dream. My family and loved ones inspire me to keep going for it even when you have those setbacks and big hurdles you have to overcome. They are there supporting me every step of the way. Other athletes at the top of the game and legends of their sports inspire me to go out and create my very own memorable moments. I’m not saying it’s easy to get out of bed at 5am to start training but being motivated has never been a problem for me.
Any tips for our readers who would like to try surfing, but they’re afraid? Any tips on preparing for the water?
SF: Grab a friend and learn to surf together… laugh through the funny moments of falling off and getting rolled by waves and celebrate those moments when either of you get an amazing wave or nature lights up for you. Start out on a long board and get your technique sound before progressing onto shorter boards. Start with riding the broken foamy waves before progressing out to the back of the lineup. Don’t forget to smile every time you paddle into a wave 🙂
Do you have a favorite recipe, fitness or health tip or exercise you can share with our readers?
SF: The Fitzy Chicken Soup; It is the best recipe because there is no recipe haha! Look in your fridge and empty out all your soup looking veggies, like Carrots, celery, Sweet potato, capsicum, mushrooms, zucchini, Just throw it all in a big pot with chicken pieces or drumsticks with some stock and away you go. Add in some sort of grain to give it some body, options are endless; Brown rice, Quinoa, rice noodles, soup mix, whatever takes your fancy. I add plenty of chilli for a good kick but it’s up to you : )
What’s next on your agenda? And where do you see yourself in 10 years? (Competitions, books, media etc.,)
SF: I still have the World Title to chase for the rest of the year with five events remaining it will be another close battle. On the other side of things I have a book coming out in November and just for a bit of fun I am releasing a mobile app surfing game. In 10 years time I still see myself competing on the World Stage and hopefully leaving a legacy as rich as Kelly or Layne.
Special thanks to Sally Fitzgibbons for taking the time to stop by and share with FG.
Follow Sally’s adventures and competition results at;
http://www.instagram.com/Sally_Fitz
http://www.twitter.com/Sally_Fitz
Sally:
Your short bio (paraphrasing ) reads like you have been very busy.
I like that , you are active and you have your GOAL/FOCUS.
I am a mental coach for athletes and student athletes, as well as intervening when the binging gets out of control.
Good luck in the rest of the events. . . . maybe take a few shots at Trestles when your all there. . . .