Benefits of training on the beach

Now that it seems we can gradually start enjoying our beaches again, and with vacations approaching when many will choose to go somewhere with a beach, you might have considered the possibility of training on the beach sand. We are going to 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 less, which is always beneficial in a sport where you take so many impacts daily.

The benefits of training on the beach are numerous!

For the same reason, due to the type of terrain and the difficulty of running on such an unstable surface, you will burn more calories in less time, meaning you will exert more effort. Another benefit is that when we run on the beach, we are doing a quality workout since we need greater intensity than if we run on a more stable surface.

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 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. That’s why it’s good not to always run in the same direction, alternating the muscles that work more on each side.

Still, don’t do excessively long sessions, since the foot strike we make when running on a sloped surface is not natural and can lead to some type of overload.

Similarly, if you decide to run not on the shoreline, which is a firmer surface, but on the actual beach sand, while it’s true that it has benefits in terms of gaining power and endurance, you should consider that some parts of your legs will suffer more, such as the calves, ankles, etc., because they will need to work harder with each stride if the terrain is too soft.

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

Running with shoes… may seem more cumbersome, but you will avoid stepping on small shells or other objects that may be on the shore. Also, if you run all year with shoes, doing it barefoot without prior adaptation can cause some discomfort. Remember, we want 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 sunscreen…

As you can see, with some “precaution” measures and a bit of common sense, you can enjoy training on the beach. Don’t do excessively long workouts, don’t try to run at the same speed as on asphalt, 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 Sizen pressotherapy session 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 recovery to boost your athletic performance.

Juan Pedro Mora is a popular runner and Sizen ambassador.