Ride Update
www.parkworld-online.com
A sea change A
quatic Development Group (ADG) recently announced that its deep-water stationary surf wave, EpicSurf, has been granted the title of a ‘Certified Autism Resource’ by the International Board of
Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). It is a fantastic achievement for ADG and a reflection on EpicSurf’s inclusive ability to bring the healing power and joy of surfing to people of all abilities, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). So, what’s so special about EpicSurf? It is a deep-water stationary surf
wave – the first of its kind in the US – made with a real wave of water. And unlike sheet wave technology, this true deep-water wave brings a customisable real surfing experience to guests of all abilities. From beginners learning to surf, right the way through to experts perfecting their tricks and turns, and to adaptive programming and surf therapy, EpicSurf’s real wave surfing provides the ideal platform for creating the ultimate surf experience for all. And with its compact footprint too, EpicSurf means anyone can surf anywhere.
The concept of surf therapy in itself is certainly not new. However, while it is currently seen as a great outlet for those with ASD, it is not something that is readily available to most people. Whether the hurdle be geographical, financial, the cost to travel, barrier of entry, not knowing how to swim, parental fears of safety, sharks, environmental factors – for many, surf therapy just isn’t always a feasible opportunity. EpicSurf and man-made surf machines are bringing surfing inland, making this form of therapy more accessible and inclusive to people of all abilities. “Surf simulation offers tremendous potential to people without access
to the ocean”, says Kris Primacio, CEO of the International Surf Therapy Organization. “I like to describe wave pools and surf machines as the ‘wellness centres of the future’.”
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There are a number of factors which make EpicSurf a unique surf simulation experience and a valuable therapeutic tool for those with ASD:
• Consistency. EpicSurf is a consistent wave of water, meaning that the wave never changes. This predictability and repetition of the wave is an invaluable asset to those with ASD and not something the ocean can provide. For individuals that suffer with sensory overload,
the crashing of the water can be very calming and provide a rhythmic sensation. The feeling of being immersed in or next to water allows the surfer to feel calm and eases anxiety.
• EpicSurf has been designed with safety redundancies for the surfer and the guardian’s piece of mind, including a quick stop/start button to quickly drain the wave dry in a matter of seconds; rapid wave adjustability to raise and lower the height of the wave to customise the experience for each surfer and their skill level; retractable training bars for support and balance; and adjustable pumps where the volume of the wave can be adjusted in order to allow instructors, therapists and trainers to stand in the wave and support the surfer.
One way that ASD is treated
is through Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) which is a method to motivate the individual to participate and have shared social interactions. EpicSurf provides the surfer with a sense of belonging and comradery as other surfers cheer you on, and encourages a bond with instructors and/or therapists due to the compact footprint and intimacy of the interactions. The sense of community formed around surfing, and sense of accomplishment during a skill-based activity, serve to encourage the development of social skills as participants learn how to react and speak to fellow surfers, building a shared common
FEBRUARY 2023
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