subject: Reasons To Exercise At The Beach. [print this page] Chances are that when you go to the beach, most of the people are there to relax, soak up some sun and spend some time lying around. When most people are at the beach exercise is probably the last thing that they are thinking about. However, it can provide an excellent place to get some activity which can lead to some fun calorie burning activities. One can use the beach to get away from the artificial lighting and air conditioning that is recirculated and enjoy the fresh air as a break. The beach is used by many companies who offer a fitness boot camp holiday for that reason.
The beach has several advantages if you would like to workout there, let's look at some:
Of course there is water - It is difficult to get the type of resistance to the body that water can provide. One example is that the water can offer resistance to the whole body if you go farther out, or just the legs closer to the shore. This type of resistance is difficult to mimic on a gym treadmill.
Swimming is an activity that can be done at the beach of course. Most gyms don't offer this. If the gym does offer it is will be away from where you would be typically exercising. Being that the beach has the water right there, it is possible to add swimming to circuit training.
Sand on the shore - There will usually be two types of surfaces the sand provides. Near the water, where the tide comes in and goes out, it may be packed. This is where you can do exercises that require balance.
There will be a softer surface the farther away from the water you get. The soft surface offers several benefits. Because it is soft it will be easier on the joints if you choose to run or walk in it. The soft sand absorbs energy. For this reason it will require more work if you choose to add jumping or running to your activity at the beach. It will also allow you to perform exercises that you would typically do on a mat in the gym, such as knee pushups or situps.
It is easy to mark off distances in the sand. Using lines drawn in the sand, we can use them for shuttle runs. The beach can add variety to your workouts. If you do circuit training, it is easy to design a bodyweight exercise circuit while you are at the beach that will include things that you cannot get at a gym, or at home.
Getting the family involved - Chances are you will be with your family when you go to the beach. The family doesn't have to join in your exercise circuit or your running. But, there are activities that are fun for the whole family that will get them on their feet and active. To get the family involved bring a frisbee, volleyball, or a football. Why did you bring the family to the beach? It is usually to have some fun.
The beach also offers a distraction. Usually for safety, I would say stay focused and don't get distracted. But there are some endurance exercises such as jogging that can be boring to many. We can enjoy the scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and listen to the ocean while we are doing our activity. Thus, it can seem like the time passes quicker.
Even though working out at the beach may be fun, there are some things to consider when you are thinking about adding some exercise while you're there.
Of course be sure to bring some sunblock. Even if it is cloudy the sun's rays can cause a sunburn. Be positive it is waterproof and will not wash away from swimming or sweat. If you go swimming do it around where there are lifeguards. Be careful of sea life and tides that can sweep you away from the shore. Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
The beach can allow us to try different forms of exercise we may not be used to or cannot do in our daily routine. So the next time you go to the beach, consider doing something more than just catching some rays. It can be an excellent place to try something new and different and have a fitness holiday!
