Finding fitness on the beach is easy. Just look around and
you will see many fit people walking on the sands. But if
you're looking for your own fitness, the beach has plenty
to offer. From the sands to the waters and even your beach
towel, you can find fitness on the beach to be more than
just fun in the sun – you can get in shape too.
The secret behind fitness on the beach is that everything
and anything can be used to improve your health – if you
just use your imagination. The sand is the easiest place to
start to increase your fitness. Running or walking on the
dry sands is much harder than walking on pavement,
increasing your fitness levels and adding to your
cardiovascular health. When you're pushing sand out of your
way, you're using more muscles and the workout is harder –
it's really the best exercise equipment. You can also use
the sand as a weight machine by trying to kick it with your
feet – excellent for your legs. Or you can try lifting the
sand to help with a sand castle with the kids – great for
your arms and chest.
The water is the most obvious help for fitness on the
beach. If you know how to swim, you can get a nice workout
in while you're relaxing for the day. With a stronger
riptide or current, it will be all the more helpful for
your entire body. Try to swim laps if you can, using your
arms and legs at the same time for the maximum benefit.
Cupping your hands as you swim will increase the resistance
for your arms and add to the benefits you receive. You can
also try surfing for another challenge to your muscles or
head out on a kickboard or with flippers to really work
your leg muscles.
But you probably haven't considered how your towel can help
with fitness on the beach. Try this exercise: take a towel
the long way and hold one side in each hand. Slide your
hands towards the middle so that your hands are about
shoulder width apart and straight out from your body. Lift
the towel above your head as you grip it tightly and then
slightly lean to one side and then the other. You're
working out your arms as well as defining your sides. You
can also use the towel to workout your legs by lying on
your back, placing the towel around both heels and creating
resistance as you push your heels away from your body and
then back to your body.
Fitness on the beach can be fun as well as convenient if
you just bring your imagination along with your sunscreen.
----------------------------------------------------
Machelle Lee owns and operates, The Invisible Gym in Santa
Cruz, CA. Her mission is to inspire people to become
physically active and enjoy the benefits of a balanced,
healthy lifestyle. For more information and questions you
can visit her website.
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