Walk This Way
Need a reason to get off your beach towel? Did you know that walking in the sand burns up to 50 percent more calories than walking on a sidewalk, track or street at the same pace. Why? The muscles in your butt, thighs, feet and ankles have to work harder to push off the soft sand. This forces you to expend more calories. Plus, the uneven suface of the sand requires you to stabilize your core, so you’ll strenghten your abs, without even realizing it.
When you are walking on sand, be sure to wear sneakers so that you won’t injure yourself on any sharp rocks or seashells. Sneakers will also support your foot and ankle on the sands’ uneven surface.
So go ahead, take a walk on the beach for 15 minutes and get the same benefits as a 30 minute street walk. Cut your walking time in half – and get the same (or better) benefits.