Tips for Running on the Beach
Whether you are jogging, running or showing off your allegedly solid frame you will need these tips for running on the beach. The last thing you want to do is move along like you are God’s gift to the world and then snap your Achilles tendon, pull your gastrocnemius (that’s a fancy word for calf muscle) or feel like someone hit you in the back of the thigh with a small ball peen hammer the next day. So, before you start attempting to flex and run at the same time think about these pointers.
Watch Your Tide
Low tide is the best time for running on the beach. As the water recedes it leaves the perfect hard packed sand that gives just enough but does not give so much that you become deep to your ankle, which could be dangerous. Stay as close to the water as possible without getting your feet wet as this will cause you to sink slightly deeper. Check the web or paper for local tide charts in the area you are running and try to time your run at the peak of low tide or within an hour or so. High tide just takes over dry sand and does not give you as good a running surface.
Watch the Slant, Make a Snake
Here’s where you can drop like a pile of bricks if you are not too careful or have a prior injury. Most beaches will have a considerable slant so, if you can, it is important to run the slant with both feet. This means that instead of having one leg lower than the other, throwing off your knees and hips make a snake. Running in a long snake pattern will enable you to stay on a more even path
Work it Deep
If you really want a workout that does not take long and will make your thighs and calves burn, then run in the high sand. The dry, soft, deep swallows of beach way above the surf are similar to running in heavy snow. You will work hard to lift out of each step using practically every muscle group to propel through this thick terrain.
What to Wear
What you wear depends on how serious your workout will be. If you are just flexing your man Pecs for all the ladies then make sure you are obviously slathered in sun block and not wearing a Speedo. However, if you are going to burn some fat you may want to invest in a pair of beach sneakers. These are basically high end water shoes that protect and support your feet. You can go barefoot but if you run long and often the sand and surf could take their toll and destroy your feet. Include a hat and sunglasses and you are ready to go.
These tips for running on the beach should help you take advantage of such an opportune surrounding. Plus, it just may get you a phone number or two.