This: Go out and practice your paddling, and build up paddling speed. No waves? even better! less time riding = more time paddling. No ocean nearby? surfboard leash tethered to pool ladder. paddle until you pull that sucka right out of the concrete!
Hmm... not sure the local pool would allow that. We do have a small man made lake by our house that I've thought about paddling around in... but it's kind of filthy and so much mud has piled up in it, that the "bottom" is above the water in spots. Been doing a lot of rock climbing with the lack of swell... that's a good shoulder workout.
Moderation of swimming, running and surf/paddling related exercises using free weights along with a nutritious diet works best for performing at your maximum for every session. I've noticed every aspect of my surfing has improved when doing these things. Oh yeah, and don't forget to stretch every day, even if your not doing anything physical for that day.
Diet is key, stretching.... lots of it, since i've really made a habit of these two things, i've gotten a lot more out of my workouts and surf sessions
