ZOOZ Fitness Teams Up with Pelican Ocean Therapy for an Unforgettable ‘Sweat and Surf’ Day at Zuma Beach
August 5, 2025
Under the sunny skies of Malibu, dozens of ZOOZ Fitness athletes, their families, and coaches gathered at Zuma Beach for a one-of-a-kind experience: the first-ever “Sweat and Surf” collaboration between ZOOZ Fitness and Pelican Ocean Therapy.
The event brought together two organizations with a shared mission — to foster inclusion, empowerment, and joy through movement — and combined land-based workouts with adaptive surf therapy for a day that left everyone inspired, energized, and soaked in saltwater.
“It was so much fun,” said Arthur, a longtime ZOOZ athlete, beaming after a full day of sweating and surfing.
The day kicked off with a dynamic warmup led by Jake, ZOOZ founder and CEO, who got the energy flowing on the sand. That was followed by an engaging circuit workout led by Jared, ZOOZ’s Fitness Director, who had both ZOOZ athletes and Pelican regulars high-fiving, laughing, and pushing themselves through a series of interactive drills.
After a quick snack and water break, everyone suited up in wetsuits and hit the waves with Pelican Ocean Therapy’s expert instructors. Athletes of all abilities surfed, swam, and boogie boarded — some for the very first time.
“It was exciting,” said Clarissa, a ZOOZ athlete who couldn’t stop smiling after catching a wave.
Founded by JP “Peli” Pereat, Pelican Ocean Therapy specializes in adaptive surf therapy and was born out of JP’s desire to create community and joy for individuals with disabilities— a mission deeply inspired by his nephew with autism.
“I wanted to create a space for families to find their tribe,” JP shared. “A place where they can participate like everyone else — to surf, laugh, and belong. That’s what Pelican Ocean Therapy is about.”
For Jake, the partnership was a natural fit.
“At ZOOZ, we believe movement should be accessible, empowering, and joyful — and Pelican Ocean Therapy embodies that in the ocean,” Jake said. “This partnership is about more than fitness; it’s about giving people a chance to feel strong, free, and connected.”
From the sand to the surf, the event was a reminder that fitness is not just about building strength — it’s also about building community, confidence, and connection.
ZOOZ and Pelican Ocean Therapy say this is only the beginning. Both organizations hope to make “Sweat and Surf” a regular collaboration.
“I can’t wait to do it again,” said Arthur.
