Why Your Gym Membership May Not Be the Best Way to Get Fit
For many of us, the gym equivalent to purgatory. Treadmills, weights, and ellipticals can be a chore, turning one of the most important aspects of life – exercise – into something that feels dreary and tedious. However, just because the gym isn’t your thing, it doesn’t mean staying fit and healthy isn’t achievable.
As the weather heats up, beach season is upon us. And nothing beats the sun, sea, and sand for a good workout. With many sports and exercises suited to the beach’s natural landscape, it’s easy to incorporate outdoor activities into your workout routine.
In this article, we’ll explore why beach sports are the ultimate workout, with tips on how to make the most of them and stay safe while you do.
The Benefits of Beach Workouts
Beach sports provide many benefits that traditional gym workouts may not.
First and foremost, beach sports are a refreshing change from the monotony of the gym, with varying terrains and challenges that stimulate both your mind and your body. Running on the sand, for example, requires more muscle engagement as the extra resistance makes it more difficult to move forward. Plus, there’s something special about being outside in nature while you work up a sweat.
Second, the beach offers a multitude of activities that target different muscle groups. From beach volleyball to surfing, beach workouts give you the opportunity to engage in sports and activities you may not have tried before. This variety allows you to switch up your workout routine regularly, keeping you motivated and excited about getting fit.
Third, the beach is a social environment. Working out with a partner or team of friends helps you stay accountable and motivated, in addition to promoting team building and socializing.
Finally, beach workouts are a low-cost alternative to gym memberships. Most beaches offer free access, and many sports equipment rentals are available at a reasonable price.
The Best Beach Sports for Your Workout
The beauty of beach workouts is that the possibilities are endless. However, some exercises and sports provide a more intense workout than others. Here are some of the most effective sport and exercise options for a beach workout:
Beach Running
Running on the beach is an excellent cardiovascular workout, as it requires more effort than running on a flat surface due to the sand’s resistance. Beach running also strengthens the muscles in your feet and calves, helping improve balance and posture.
When starting, it’s best to run on the hard-packed sand near the water’s edge, as the sand here will be the densest, offering the best resistance. Be sure to wear running shoes with good insoles as the sand can be challenging on your joints.
Beach Volleyball
Beach volleyball is a team sport that offers an all in one workout, combining cardio, strength training, and hand-eye coordination. It’s a fun and fast-paced sport that can burn up to 600 calories in just one hour. Players must jump, sprint, and dive, which engages various muscle groups and helps improve balance and coordination.
Surfing
Surfing is a demanding but rewarding sport suitable for those with intermediate to advanced skills. It’s an excellent full-body workout, improving your core strength, arm, and leg muscles, and cardiovascular fitness. If you’re looking for a challenge, then surfing may be the perfect workout for you.
Swimming
Swimming is a low-impact exercise that is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. It’s an excellent way to improve cardiovascular fitness, lung capacity, and overall endurance. Swimming in the ocean adds resistance to the workout and also provides an opportunity to cool down after a high-intensity session. Be sure to understand ocean safety and swimming at beaches that are supervised and patrolled by lifeguards for safety.
Tips for Safe Beach Workouts
As with any workout routine, safety is always a top priority. Here are some tips for safely working out and participating in beach sports:
Wear Proper Footwear
Beach workouts can put extra stress on your feet, so it’s important to wear supportive and comfortable footwear. Running shoes with good insoles are ideal, but if you’re doing water sports, water shoes can provide a better grip on slippery surfaces.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential when working out in hot weather, so remember to take frequent water breaks. It’s easy to get dehydrated quickly when participating in water sports or sweating in the sun, so carry a water bottle with you and take regular sips.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
The sun can be damaging to your skin and eyes, so it’s essential to take precautions. Wear a high SP factor sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to prevent sunburn and overheating.
Bring Snacks
Working out in the sun can lead to a dip in energy levels, so it’s important to bring some snacks or light meals to keep you fueled throughout the day. Fruits and vegetables are great options that can help you stay hydrated, so pack them into your cooler or backpack.
Know Your Limits
It’s important to know your fitness level when participating in any exercise or sport. Beach workouts can be intense, so start slowly and gradually increase your intensity as you feel comfortable. Always seek advice from a medical professional before engaging in any strenuous physical activity.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a more enjoyable way to get fit, beach workouts are an excellent option. With a wide range of sports and activities available, every fitness level and interest can find an exercise that will fit their specific needs. However, always prioritize safety, especially when participating in water sports like surfing and swimming. Follow the advice outlined above, and you’ll be on your way to achieving your fitness goals while enjoying the beauty and fun of the beach.
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