When thinking about great ways to get your cardio exercise, one of the top choices is always running. It doesn’t require equipment, can be done just about anywhere and does amazing things for both body and mind. A great way to boost this classic favorite is to take your running workout to the beach. The sand and crashing waves provide striking scenery as you run, while the physical elements on the beach challenge your body in new ways.
Here are the top reasons why a run on the beach should be your new go-to cardio routine:
Get a Healthier Body
Any time you get your body moving during a workout, you are benefiting every cell inside of you. As your heart pumps faster and blood flow increases, your lungs take in more oxygen which helps your breathing. With this boost in oxygen, your body will be equipped to perform better. When running becomes part of your regular routine, you will consistently be building your level of stamina, which means you’ll be able to run at a faster pace and for longer periods. With the natural resistance you encounter from the sand on the beach, running will help your leg muscles grow stronger and better toned because the unstable ground will make them work even harder. Another benefit of running in the sand is that the softer surface is less damaging to joints than those that are more rigid such as pavement, meaning your joints are less likely to suffer an injury.
Burn More Calories
While running in the sand offers a great leg workout that carves the muscles, it also helps to burn even more calories due to the extra effort your body must expend. Performing a cardio workout such as running is a surefire way to stimulate your metabolism so that your body is burning calories and fat well after you’ve completed your exercise. This rise in metabolic speed results in your body working off calories even when you are at complete rest or doing sedentary things like watching TV or sitting at a desk.
Lower Stress
Although the physical benefits of running on the beach are reason enough to do it, one of its biggest payoffs is that it can help lower your stress levels. Getting exercise in a gorgeous environment is not only motivating, it will naturally diminish any mental anguish or tension you might be experiencing so you end up in a mellower mood. As the waves lap up onto the shore, the soothing sights and sounds you encounter as your run on the beach will transport you to a blissful state of mind. You are sure to emerge from your run with a sense of renewal that you can feel in your mind, body and spirit.
A run on the beach is the perfect way to stay in shape in the stunning elements of nature.
