How to Exercise at the Beach

There are countless activities you can do at the beach that will provide you with health benefits, though they won't seem like exercise at all. Get in a great workout while enjoying the fresh air, sounds of the ocean, and the sand under your feet.



Step 1 Choose beach games like paddle ball, keep-away, tag, or volleyball to get your heart rate going.



Step 2  Picking up sand dollars and sea shells will work your lower back, hamstrings, and quadriceps. Remember to bend from your knees.



Step 3 Throwing a Frisbee works your upper back and arm muscles and can provide good cardiovascular conditioning, if you have to run to catch it.



Step 4 Sand adds resistance to each activity and increases your calorie expenditure, the number of calories you burn.



Step 5 Walking along the beach is great exercise, and you can walk near the water challenging yourself not to get your feet wet.



Step 6 Take a surfing lesson and experience upper- and lower-body conditioning.



Step 7 Shoveling sand to make a sand castle or a moat can be great exercise.



Step 8 Perform gentle yoga poses on your beach towel to stretch and lengthen your body.



Step 9 Walk or run in the water for a great low-impact workout.