Sometimes I think there’s a place you’ve just got to know about and my Public Service Announcements (PSAs) will give you the full skinny.
I always love discovering new workout classes that turn the act of exercising into something fun and enjoyable. When I saw Eva Chen hit up Surfset with her team on her Insta Stories, I immediately texted Rebekah to see if she wanted to try it out.
The studio is basic. After climbing what felt like a million stairs, you arrive to a tiny waiting area large enough to cram in about six people. There’s a shower curtain right in the middle that sections off a changing area, but that feels decidedly less than private so I would walk through the studio to the bathroom if you need to change. Don’t worry about disrupting class; as you’d expect from a surf spot, they’re super chill about everything here.
We went to the East Village location, but now that I know I like it, I’m dying to check out one of their morning rooftop classes. That would be a great way to start a day.
Our instructor. He seemed to forget he was in NYC and was total Cali surfer dude, man. He even wore a bathing suit, despite the fact that there isn’t actual water. When I saw how chill he was I didn’t think there would be much to this class and I certainly wouldn’t learn anything, but I was shocked by how hard my muscles were working and how much I improved by the end of class.
Here’s what to expect when you come to class:
- Class Size of 15 People – I liked that the instructor really took note of our names for a personalized experience
- A [I think] Real Deal Feeling – You’re on a six-foot long board that’s on top of three balance balls to mimic the feeling of water
- Soreness – This class really engages your core. I guess it takes a lot of work to surf! It was really difficult to balance at first. At first I thought I’d never catch on and this class was a mistake, but I couldn’t believe how much I was able to control my movements by the end. It’s a full body workout, with emphasis on core work that you’ll definitely be feeling the next day.
- Good Music – They project the ocean and push out wave sounds at the beginning and end of class. In the middle, they’re pumping out the hits. I like any time I can work out to Beyonce.
On top of everything else, they’re hosting a series of Epic Beach Days. Just get yourself to Long Beach (easy enough) and $120 will get you a surf lesson, pizza lunch, gift bag, raffle, and discount on future classes. Rebekah and I are seriously considering it. If nothing else, I am more than considering taking another class here.
