Running is a very vigorous exercise that not only helps to improve your health but also keeps you energized. Most people prefer running in parks and tracks.
But did you know that running on the beach offers more benefits than running on pavement?
The soft and wet sand makes you a stronger and faster runner. You will see an improvement in your running performance even when you’re not on the beach. Moreover, running on the beach gives you fantastic views.
Here are more reasons why you should consider running on the beach:
7 Unknown Benefits of Running on the Beach
1. Fewer Injuries
Ligaments that absorb too much shock become inflamed. Running on the beach prevents injuries like ankle sprains and Achilles tendonitis.
It also reduces your chances of acquiring plantar fasciitis, a foot disorder caused by running on hard surfaces.
Start by running on wet sand close to the water which is firmer and more packed. Every time you land, the sand shifts, providing a softer base than pavement.
This puts less stress on your feet, ankle, hips, and heels while running.
2. Less Impact
Running is a very high-impact workout that puts a lot of pressure on the lower parts of the body.
However, if running is done on the beach, it becomes a low impact exercise thanks to the soft sand that provides a smoother surface.
Sand reduces the shock and force of each step on the musculoskeletal system.
3. Strengthen Weak Links
Unlike roads or pavements, sand is an unstable surface. In order to keep your balance, your body will force the small muscles in your feet and ankles to work.
These muscles are weak because they are not utilized when running on hard surfaces. When they are used, they become stronger and any imbalances are fixed.
4. Burn More Calories
Obviously, running on the beach requires more energy than running on a hard surface, due to the unevenness and constant shifting of the sand with each step. More energy exerted means more calories burned.
Running on the beach helps burn fat two times faster than running on pavement. So if you want to get better results in a shorter period, run on the beach.
5. Stunning Views
You get to enjoy beautiful scenery while running on the beach. Just imagine running alongside a shining sun, coupled with a cool ocean breeze and the melodic sound of the waves.
The feel of soft sand and a breathtaking view of the ocean will surely put any runner in a good mood.
6. Build Lower Body Strength
Running on the beach helps strengthen lower body muscles such as the calves, hip flexors, quadriceps, and ankles.
Studies have shown that running on the beach strengthens calf muscles faster than running on asphalt, because the former requires more effort.
When the feet have to work against a soft and shifting surface, the muscles are forced to exert more power. Running on sand also increases cardiorespiratory endurance.
7. Barefoot Running
Running barefoot is safer when performed on the beach. The sand also offers a warm, comfortable feeling to the feet and reduces the stress placed on the feet and legs.
Less stress means less chances of getting injured. In addition, barefoot running requires more effort and thus helps build ankle strength.
And because sand is a textured surface, running barefoot on it gives you a gentle acupressure massage.
Running barefoot on the beach improves your overall health and provides many benefits that running with shoes cannot.
If you’re new to running on the beach, start at 10-15 minutes of running and then gradually increase your time. Because you’re still unfamiliar with the surface, there is a risk of getting injured.
Run on the firm sand near the water to get used to running on the beach.
Also take note of the following:
- Do not run too near the water as your feet might get caught in the wet and sticky sand.
- Wear running shoes with a rubber sole for good traction and to prevent slipping.
We hope that you found this article useful. Have fun running on the beach!