How Walking on Sand Can Improve Your Health
Brisk walking has been called one of the finest forms of exercise because among other benefits, it increases cardiac output, reduces blood pressure, improves circulation and skin tone and of course strengthens bones and muscles.
This though can have a very heavy toll on the feet as serious foot injuries like calluses, blisters and so on occur usually due to wearing ill-fitted exercise shoes. And if you have ever had sore feet as a result, you know how uncomfortable, even agonizing that can be. In fact, the health of your feet can affect your entire skeletal system.
Surprisingly, studies show that people who do not wear shoes in some areas in Africa and Asia have healthier feet, fewer deformities and greater mobility than people who wear shoes. So why not have the best of both worlds by occasionally exercising briskly while barefoot. That option is readily available- walking on the dry sand on a clean beach or on sand dunes.
Sand?! For many, sand is useful for building projects, making glass, building castles on the beach and a host of other uses. Have you ever pondered the benefits that sand can actually have on our health and well-being?
“A good exercise with a massaging effect is walking on a sandy beach,” says The Arthritis Exercise Book, “especially when the sand is warm. Walking in loose dry sand exercises every muscle of the foot as the foot adjusts to the uneven surfaces.” Besides that, expended energy is almost twice as that walking on grass or pavement could generate. In fact, try running on dry sand and you’ll notice the effort it requires!
Walking barefoot not only provides the benefits of healthful exercise but also lessens wear and tear on foot and leg joints. For those with arthritis, it actually reduces the pain caused by exercise.
But a word of caution! Before you rush to the nearest beach or sand dune, it is vital to have the following in mind:
Oh and why not take with you some chilled fruit juice of your choice when you bury your feet in the sand? That’s a great way to unwind I can assure you!
Photo Credit: ocean-plaza.com
This though can have a very heavy toll on the feet as serious foot injuries like calluses, blisters and so on occur usually due to wearing ill-fitted exercise shoes. And if you have ever had sore feet as a result, you know how uncomfortable, even agonizing that can be. In fact, the health of your feet can affect your entire skeletal system.
Surprisingly, studies show that people who do not wear shoes in some areas in Africa and Asia have healthier feet, fewer deformities and greater mobility than people who wear shoes. So why not have the best of both worlds by occasionally exercising briskly while barefoot. That option is readily available- walking on the dry sand on a clean beach or on sand dunes.
Sand?! For many, sand is useful for building projects, making glass, building castles on the beach and a host of other uses. Have you ever pondered the benefits that sand can actually have on our health and well-being?
“A good exercise with a massaging effect is walking on a sandy beach,” says The Arthritis Exercise Book, “especially when the sand is warm. Walking in loose dry sand exercises every muscle of the foot as the foot adjusts to the uneven surfaces.” Besides that, expended energy is almost twice as that walking on grass or pavement could generate. In fact, try running on dry sand and you’ll notice the effort it requires!
Walking barefoot not only provides the benefits of healthful exercise but also lessens wear and tear on foot and leg joints. For those with arthritis, it actually reduces the pain caused by exercise.
But a word of caution! Before you rush to the nearest beach or sand dune, it is vital to have the following in mind:
- Make sure the sand is clean and free of sharp objects before walking barefoot
- If you have any serious health problems, such as diabetes or heart trouble, you should consult your physician before taking up any new exercise.
- Start your exercise program by walking at a slow or moderate pace and then gradually increase over a period of weeks. This will lead to a safer and more enjoyable exercise routine for you.
Oh and why not take with you some chilled fruit juice of your choice when you bury your feet in the sand? That’s a great way to unwind I can assure you!
Photo Credit: ocean-plaza.com
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