Surfing and Acid Reflux: Why Surfers Get GERD and How to Prevent It
Surfing and Acid Reflux (GERD)
Can Surfing Cause Acid Reflux?
Surprisingly, yes.
Research has shown that surfers—particularly short-board surfers—experience significantly higher rates of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as acid reflux.
One study from Hawaii found that short-board surfers had nearly 5 times greater odds of reflux symptoms compared with other athletes.
The likely reason is simple: prolonged paddling places pressure directly on the abdomen, making it easier for stomach contents to move upward into the esophagus.
Why Does Surfing Trigger Reflux?
Several surfing-specific factors contribute:
Prolonged Paddling
While paddling, surfers spend extended periods lying prone on a hard board.
This position increases pressure inside the abdomen and can promote reflux.
Short Boards vs. Long Boards
Research found:
Short-board surfers: 28% reported GERD symptoms
Long-board surfers: 12% reported GERD symptoms
Short boards concentrate pressure over a smaller abdominal area, which may explain the difference.
Long Surf Sessions
The risk of reflux increases with:
More years surfing
More frequent surfing
Longer sessions
The more time spent paddling, the greater the cumulative exposure.
Common Symptoms
Surfers with GERD may experience:
Heartburn
Burning in the chest
Sour taste in the mouth
Burping
Throat irritation
Chronic cough
Symptoms that worsen after paddling
Some surfers notice symptoms only after long sessions.
Why Exercise Can Trigger Reflux
Surfing is not the only sport associated with GERD.
Exercise may promote reflux through:
Increased abdominal pressure
Temporary relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)
Reduced blood flow to the digestive tract during exertion
Changes in esophageal motility
Body position appears to play a major role, which may explain why surfers are particularly affected.
How to Reduce Reflux While Surfing
Simple changes can make a significant difference.
Avoid Large Meals Before Surfing
Try not to eat for at least:
2–3 hours before paddling out
This is one of the most effective lifestyle strategies for reducing reflux.
Identify Trigger Foods
Common triggers include:
Alcohol
Coffee
Spicy foods
High-fat meals
Large evening meals
Triggers vary from person to person.
Consider Your Equipment
If reflux is frequent, a larger board may reduce abdominal pressure during paddling.
Adequate hydration can improve overall gastrointestinal function during prolonged surf sessions.
When to Seek Medical Care
Talk with a healthcare professional if you experience:
Symptoms more than twice weekly
Difficulty swallowing
Unexplained weight loss
Chronic cough
Persistent throat symptoms
Reflux that does not improve with treatment
Long-standing GERD can lead to complications if left untreated.
From a Surfer + Medical Perspective
As both a surfer and medical professional, I’ve seen many surfers assume their reflux is caused entirely by diet.
The reality is that the surfing position itself may be contributing.
Long paddles on short boards, especially after eating, create the perfect conditions for reflux. Many surfers find that simply adjusting meal timing before sessions dramatically improves symptoms.
If you’re getting heartburn after every surf, it may not be the burrito—it could be the board.
Key Takeaway
Surfing, particularly short-board surfing, appears to increase the risk of acid reflux due to prolonged abdominal pressure during paddling. Avoiding meals before surfing, identifying trigger foods, and treating symptoms early can help keep reflux from interfering with your time in the water.
Related Article:
References
Norisue Y, et al. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine. 2009.
Fass R. New England Journal of Medicine. 2022.
Herregods TV, et al. American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2016.
ter Steege RW, et al. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 2012.
Wan L, et al. Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. 2024.