Eddie Invitee Prepares with Warm-Up Sets at Pumping Jaws

Big Wave Surfer Annie Reickert Makes Triumphant Return too the Ocean After Shoulder Surgery

Maui, Hawaii – Annie Reickert, a prominent big wave surfer, has made a remarkable comeback to the competitive surfing scene following a challenging recovery from shoulder surgery. Her recent performance at the Eddie aikau Big Wave Invitational, where she finished as the highest-ranked woman competitor (29th overall), underscores her resilience and unwavering passion for the ocean.

The surgery, while a setback, offered Reickert a profound appreciation for the activities she once took for granted. “It made me never take being in the ocean or running without pain for granted ever again,” she shared. The recovery process also prompted a meaningful mental shift, as she learned to let go of comparisons to her past self. “I convinced myself I’d never get back to feeling 100%,” Reickert admitted. “so it took a mentality change to accept things might be different than how they used to be, and you might not be the same person, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. You’re not a worse version or athlete, just different.”

This new perspective has clearly fueled her success. Her performance at the Eddie Aikau big Wave invitational was preceded by ideal conditions at Jaws, a legendary surf break. During the competition, a particularly impressive wave at Jaws’ west bowl, ridden alongside her boyfriend Albee Layer, earned her a coveted spot in the 2025 Big Wave Challenge. The video footage captures the raw power and skill involved in navigating such formidable waves.Reickert described the atmosphere on the day the eddie Aikau was called on: “I think that morning they called the Eddie on for Sunday. I was definitely buzzing.”

Beyond big wave surfing, Reickert also recently triumphed in her division at an 8-mile downwind hydrofoil race on Maui’s north coast, a charity event benefiting special needs children. This victory further highlights her versatility and dedication to ocean sports.

Reickert’s journey is a powerful testament to the human capacity for overcoming adversity and rediscovering passion. Her story offers valuable insights for anyone facing a physical challenge:

Embrace the present: Cherish the abilities you have and appreciate every opportunity to engage in activities you love.
Mindset is key: Shifting your perspective from comparison to acceptance can unlock new potentials and lead to unexpected growth.
Resilience is built: Setbacks are opportunities to develop inner strength and a deeper understanding of your own capabilities.
Passion fuels perseverance: A genuine love for what you do will drive you to push through challenges and celebrate every victory, big or small.

Wherever Annie Reickert is today, it’s a safe bet she’s embracing her passion for the ocean, proving that with grit and a positive outlook, the waves of life can be surfed with renewed strength and purpose.

What specific dryland exercises are moast effective for building the core stability needed to withstand the impact of a wipeout at Jaws?

The Rigorous Training Regimen for big Wave Surfers

Pumping Jaws, famed for its monstrous waves, isn’t a place you just show up and surf. For invitees like Eddie Vedder – yes, the musician – preparation is paramount. Beyond sheer courage, a meticulously planned warm-up routine is crucial for tackling waves that can reach 50+ feet. This isn’t about stretching on the beach; it’s a multi-stage process designed to prime the body and mind for extreme conditions. Understanding the demands of big wave surfing requires understanding the preparation.

Phase 1: Dryland Conditioning – Building the Foundation

Months before the Eddie Aikau contest window opens, invitees are deep into dryland training. This isn’t just general fitness; it’s specifically tailored to the unique stresses of Jaws.

Strength Training: Focuses on core stability, back strength, and shoulder endurance. Exercises include deadlifts, pull-ups, and weighted rows. This builds the power needed for paddling into waves and surviving wipeouts.

Cardiovascular Endurance: Long-distance swimming, interval training, and running are essential. The ability to hold your breath and recover quickly is life-saving.

Adaptability & Mobility: Yoga and dynamic stretching improve range of motion, preventing injuries and enhancing performance.

Breath-Hold Training: Crucial for surviving prolonged underwater hold-downs.Static and dynamic apnea training, under the supervision of experienced instructors, are common. This is a core component of Jaws surfing preparation.

Phase 2: Water Acclimation & Paddle Fitness

Moving from the gym to the ocean, the focus shifts to water-specific conditioning. This phase is about building paddle strength and getting agreeable in challenging conditions.

paddle Intervals: Short, intense paddling bursts followed by recovery periods. This mimics the effort required to paddle into a Jaws wave.

Distance Paddling: Building endurance for long paddles out to the lineup.

Surf-Specific Drills: practicing pop-ups, duck dives, and turns in smaller waves to refine technique.

Cold Water Exposure: Jaws can be cold. Acclimatizing to the temperature is vital to prevent shock and maintain performance.

Phase 3: Wave-specific Warm-Up – The Final Countdown

On contest day, or any day a big swell is predicted, the warm-up becomes incredibly focused. This isn’t about tiring yourself out; it’s about activating the right muscles and sharpening reflexes.

Dynamic Stretching: Performed on the beach or in the water, focusing on shoulders, back, and legs.

Light Paddling: Gentle paddling to increase blood flow and loosen up muscles.

Small Wave Surfing: Catching a few smaller waves to get a feel for the conditions and dial in board control.

Visualization: Mental rehearsal of paddling into, riding, and surviving a Jaws wave. This is a powerful tool for building confidence and reducing anxiety.

Breathwork Exercises: Controlled breathing techniques to calm the nerves and prepare for breath-holding.

The Role of Equipment in Warm-Up & Performance

proper equipment is non-negotiable at Jaws. The warm-up also includes checking and adjusting gear.

Big Wave Surfboard: Ensuring the board is in perfect condition, with functioning leashes and foot straps.

Impact Vest: Providing buoyancy and protection during wipeouts.

Inflation Vest: A crucial safety device that can be inflated to provide additional buoyancy in an emergency.

Wetsuit: Choosing the appropriate thickness for the water temperature.

Personal Locator Beacon (PLB): A vital safety device for summoning help in an emergency.

Benefits of a Structured Warm-up Routine

A well-executed warm-up isn’t just about preventing injuries; it’s about maximizing performance and increasing survival chances.

Reduced Risk of Injury: Warming up muscles and joints prepares them for the intense stresses of big wave surfing.

Improved Performance: Increased blood flow and muscle activation enhance power, speed, and endurance.

Enhanced Mental Focus: Visualization and breathwork exercises sharpen focus and reduce anxiety.

Increased confidence: Knowing you’re physically and mentally prepared boosts confidence and allows you to surf with greater conviction.

Real-World Example: The Eddie Aikau Legacy

The Eddie Aikau contest itself is a testament to the importance of preparation. The event is only held when waves reach a minimum height of 20 feet,and often exceed 30-40 feet. Invitees understand that respect for the ocean and rigorous training are essential for participating. The spirit of Eddie Aikau, a legendary lifeguard and big wave surfer, embodies this dedication to preparedness.His commitment to safety and his unwavering courage continue to inspire surfers at Jaws and around the world. The Eddie contest demands peak physical and mental condition.