I live in the mid-west, so surfing just isn't an option. But a friend of mine lives on the coast in California and she talks about going out surfing as casually as I would mention going for a walk. Surfing seems like such an exotic and adventurous sport to me, I can't imagine it being the norm. But, oh what a life that would be.

While, I've never surfed myself, I'll admit to being a bit enthralled with the activity. It's somehow surpassed mere sport and become an out and out lifestyle for some. In addition to all of it's other perks, surfing is incredibly physically demanding. You need leg and core strength as well as balance to succeed at the activity.

If you're lucky enough to live in an area where surfing is an option, check out these 11 reasons why women should learn to surf. If you haven't hit the waves before, sign up for lessons. When you're riding the waves, know that there's one writer stuck in the mid-west who's longing to be you!