About this time every summer, I grab my kids and we rush off and play in the sand. So with beach season now in full swing, it's time to talk seaside fitness. It's because I have so much fun in the sun, I can't stop myself from ranking my top five beach exercises.
No. 5: Beach biking
For me, this ranks as my number five activity only because you cannot perform this exercise at every beach. On many shorelines, the sand is too soft, or it is just prohibited; but when allowed, there isn't much better than riding a bicycle on the beach. Besides the aerobic benefit, the people watching and sea breezes are unbeatable.
No. 4: Beach jumping jacks
As exercises go, jumping jacks are as basic and simple as it gets. You don't have to bring equipment with you and you don't need a great fitness base; you just need to get out and jump. The soft sand will help cushion and protect your knees. And the best part is you'll feel like a kid again.
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No. 3: Beach push-ups
Coming in third on my list is push-ups. You'll notice throughout my list is one recurring theme — there's very little equipment needed. The best type of beach workout is one where you can hit the sand and go. As far as push-ups go, getting your nose in the sand is one of the best ways to truly "feel" the beach; just make sure you don't drop and do twenty on broken seashells.
No. 2: Beach walking lunges
You may look a little odd lunging around the seashore, but think of the awesome legs you'll be able to show off if you lunge from spot to spot. Find a nice stretch of beach right at the water line to keep your feet cool and wet. This way, you'll be able to enjoy the sand, the water and the exercise.
No. 1: Beach jogging
In my opinion, there's not a more enjoyable summer activity than jogging on the beach. The sand below your feet, or between your toes if you prefer to run barefoot, really makes this exercise a unique summer activity. Simply run through and past everyone lying out in the sand knowing that you'll be more fit by day's end. And as is the case with my entire list, if you get a little too hot, simply stroll into the water and cool off.
