Benefits of training on the beach

Now that it seems we can gradually enjoy our beaches again, and taking advantage of the upcoming holidays when many will choose to vacation at a seaside location, you might have considered the possibility of training on the beach sand. We will explain the benefits of training on the beach.

Like everything, it has its advantages and disadvantages, but first, let's see what benefits training on the beach can bring us. Since it is a soft surface, the impact our body receives with each stride, especially our joints, is lessened, which is always beneficial in a sport where you endure so many daily impacts.

The benefits of training on the beach are many!

For the same reason, due to the type of surface and the difficulty involved in running on such an unstable terrain, you will burn more calories in less time, meaning you will exert yourself more. Another benefit is that when we run on the beach, we are doing a quality workout, as it requires greater intensity than running on firmer ground.

For the same reason, we will strengthen the muscles in our legs and gain power in our lower body, as well as strengthen both our joints and ligaments.

Just as it has its benefits, it also has its risks…

Keep in mind that, for example, the shoreline is sloped, so if we run along the shore, we do so in a way that is unnatural for our body, putting more strain on the muscles on one side than the other. Therefore, it would be good not to always run in the same direction, alternating the muscles that work more on each side.

Still, do not do excessively long sessions, since the footfall we make when running on a sloped surface is far from natural and can lead to some kind of overload.

Similarly, if you decide to run not on the shore, which is a firmer surface, but on the actual beach sand, while it is true that this has benefits in terms of gaining power and endurance, you must consider that some parts of your legs will suffer more, such as the calves, ankles, etc., as they will require greater effort with each stride if the surface is too soft.

If you end up doing workouts on the beach, remember these few tips…

Running with shoes may seem cumbersome, but it will prevent you from stepping on small shells or other objects that may be on the shore. Also, if you run all year with shoes, doing so without them and without prior adaptation can cause some discomfort. Remember, we seek the benefits of training on the beach, not the drawbacks. 😉

If you run in summer or during the hottest months, bring hydration to drink along the way, and in any case, take advantage of public showers to cool off a bit and lower your body temperature.

Don't forget to apply sun protection…

As you can see, with certain “precaution” measures and some common sense, you can enjoy training on the beach. Do not do excessively long workouts, do not try to run at the same speed as on pavement, and by taking a few safety measures, you will surely benefit from everything running on the beach can offer you.

Also, at the end, your session of Sizen pressotherapy will always be waiting for you, undoubtedly the best way to end a day at the beach. The Sizen sports pressotherapy machines offer you the best post-workout treatment to boost your athletic performance.

Juan Pedro Mora is a popular runner and ambassador of Sizen.