The coast life affords us more than leisurely strolls and sunbathing. Our beaches, with their natural terrain, present a unique and exhilarating backdrop for fitness enthusiasts looking to elevate their workout routine. Engaging in exercises on the beach not only provides fresh enthusiasm, but also brings a host of benefits that are hard to replicate in a traditional gym setting.
Need to freshen up your workout? Searching for more intensity? The natural resistance and shifting surface of the sand adds a layer of challenge to your basic exercises. Whether you’re running along the shoreline, performing squats or lunges or pushups, the unstable surface forces your muscles to work harder. This not only helps in strengthening your stabilizer muscles but also enhances your overall balance and coordination. The increased effort required to move on the sand means that even basic exercises become more demanding, leading to higher calorie burn and ultimately faster results. And, because the sand absorbs your work, it is actually kinder on your joints.
Our backyard treasure also has a proven impact on our mental well-being. Fresh air does a body good! The rhythmic sound of the waves, the vastness of the ocean and the soothing breeze combine to create a calming environment helping to reduce stress levels. The combination of exercise and serenity makes beach workouts not just beneficial for the body, but also for the soul.
For your next workout, instead of heading to the gym, head to the beach!
Leah Seacrest is a seasoned fitness industry veteran with 30 years of experience teaching individual and group fitness. Leah is passionate about inspiring people to move, and she contributes as a writer for Bella Magazine, co-owns REGYMEN Fitness Pensacola and is corporate vice president of REGYMEN Fitness. Leah is also an ambassador for YOLO Board and Garden of Life. She is a mother of three and loves spending time on the water paddleboarding and hanging out with her family.
