Is Walking on the beach bad for your back?

When it comes to walking along the shore, our bodies need to compensate for a number of challenges: Typically, we need to trek through dry, loosely-packed sand before making it to the beach. Loose sand shifts under the weight of the body, making leg, seat, and back muscles work much harder to keep us upright.



People Also Ask

Walking barefoot on the beach brings all kinds of benefits: Because more muscles are used when walking in sand, you burn more calories—up to 50% more than walking on a stable surface like concrete. Sand is a natural exfoliant. Our feet take a beating, whether in shoes or not. Sand can smooth rough spots as you walk.

MORE DETAILS

Many people prefer to walk barefoot on the beach, but if you're going to be out for a while, shoes should be worn. And we don't mean flip-flops! Wearing flimsy sandals or no shoes at all can increase your risk of injury since the feet and ankles aren't supported.

MORE DETAILS

All this sunlight causes your body temperature to increase, and since your body is working hard to stay cool, you're losing fluids and salts through sweating. Which leaves you dehydrated — one of the primary symptoms of which is fatigue.

MORE DETAILS

A 2019 study found that spending at least two hours in nature per week helps lower levels of cortisol, a primary stress hormone. It also increased overall feelings of well-being. Walking along the shore each day is a simple but effective way to calm the cortisol response in your brain.

MORE DETAILS

Research has consistently found that many aspects of being at the beach is soothing and can help ease depression. People who live by the water report better physical and mental health than those who don't. Another study found that people who live in homes with ocean views feel more calm than those who don't.

MORE DETAILS

Pro #1: Walking on sand can be excellent exercise Beach strolls can be a fabulous form of exercise! Walking is a low-impact activity, which means you have less chance of injuring yourself compared to something that's higher impact, like running.

MORE DETAILS

Ocean air can improve your blood O2 levels, boost your vitamin D levels and improve your breathing. All of these will improve your sleep. So, there is a definite connection between the sea, ocean and salt air, and improved sleep.

MORE DETAILS

Walking on sand will exfoliate dead skin cells and make your feet feel softer. There's nothing more relaxing than strolling near the water and listening to the sounds of the ocean. Leave the shoes at home to symbolize leaving your cares behind.

MORE DETAILS