FROM EVIDENCE TO INTERVENTION TO POLICY

This PhD research project is structured as three studies that build on each other. Each phase expands the evidence, moving from measurement, to intervention, to policy application. Together, they form a complete pathway that takes surfing from an under-recognised practice to a fully evidenced health service.

Study One: Surfing as measurable physical activity

The first study generates the foundation. Using laboratory-calibrated methods, it measures surfing in both ocean and wave pool environments, comparing intensity and energy cost across paddling, wave riding, and recovery. This evidence places surfing alongside other forms of moderate-to-vigorous activity in global classifications.

Without this data, surfing cannot be included in health guidelines or recognised by prevention budgets. This study provides the proof needed to move surfing from anecdotal benefit to measurable public health asset.

Study Two: Surfing as a structured intervention

Building on the first study, the second moves into delivery. Here, surfing is tested as a structured programme, designed and measured like any other health service. Participants take part in regular sessions, with outcomes tracked across physical activity, mood, stress, and resilience.

Alongside health outcomes, this study delivers an economic evaluation, calculating cost-effectiveness and value for health systems. This step is critical: it shows not only that surfing works, but what it takes to deliver and what return it provides.

Study Three: Surfing as a health service

The final study expands from intervention to adoption. Using the results from the first two studies, it develops practical tools for policy and delivery:

Policy briefs to inform commissioners and governments.

Commissioning guidance and toolkits to show how programmes can be delivered safely and at scale.

Models for surf schools and wave pools to operate as recognised wellbeing hubs.

Global impact

These three studies together create the first complete case for surfing within Blue Health Prescribing.

They open a new prevention pathway for health systems facing rising costs of inactivity and mental ill health.

  • They equip surf operators with the evidence and tools to align with public health strategies and funding streams.

  • They provide governments with a scalable model that links sport, wellbeing, and prevention targets.

  • They set a precedent for other nature-based activities to follow, broadening the field of Blue Health, and contributing to global agendas like the WHO Global Action Plan on Physical Activity and EU Blue Health initiatives.

This research project is about building the evidence and frameworks that allow health systems to prescribe it, fund it, and deliver it as a service.

Join us in shaping the future of Blue Health

This research project offers a timely opportunity to back a scalable, evidence-driven innovation in public health.

Funders can contribute as:

Lead Funder – £25,000/year
Supports one full year of PhD research.

Exclusivity in all marketing & communications.

Core Supporter – £10,000/year
Co-funds research delivery and dissemination.

Logo on website & mentions during public speaking.

Partner Contributor – £5,000/year
Helps fund participant access, fieldwork, and essential research tools.

Logo on website & acknowledgment in research reports

Supporting Contributor – £2,500/year
Backs early-stage research and builds momentum for long-term impact.

Logo on website & recognition as part of our partner community

Meet the Team

Your investment makes it possible to generate the evidence that health systems, communities, and the sport of surfing need to move forward.

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