The summer is still a few months away, but you should start now if you want that perfect beach body.  Whether you live in Folly Beach, South Carolina, the heart of Charleston, or you’re visiting Jacksonville, Florida for the weekend, we can help you find the best exercises to do on the sand next to the crashing waves!

1. Surfing – That’s right leave the office in Charleston just after lunch to catch some surf.  The best type of exercise is something that feels more like play than work.  We highly recommend a good day of surfing.  Surprisingly paddling out and waiting for the waves requires a large amount of upper body and core.  And for every wave you catch, you’ll be using those legs when standing up and staying in control of your board.  Upon the completion of your day, you’re whole body will feel the benefits of this fun workout.
2. Plyometrics in Sand– These intense jumping activities that require the muscles to recoil and explode with the assistance of the central nervous system.  Beginners can burn a lot of calories by simple exercises such as jumping jacks and bunny hops.  More advanced athletes will find challenging activites, such as single leg hops, tuck jumps, and squat jumps to be most beneficial on the beach.  Both our Atlanta and Charleston clients can also do these exercises by finding a volleyball court or long jump pit, so they don’t have to travel all the way to Isle of Palms.
3. High Knees – Specific only to the ocean, you can feel like a heroic lifeguard while getting a great workout.  Starting from the sand, run directly into the ocean, by lifting your knees, avoiding each wave.  Continue running into the ocean, until the water level sits above your waist.  Repeat multiple times.
4. Treading Water – The giant pool of water called the ocean is a great place for a cardiovascular workout.  Although swimming is a great option, treading water can be a fun activity with the waves constantly crashing against you, adding a strength component to the exercise.  Unlike a swimming pool, this exercise won’t be easy and won’t get boring.  Pools in Buckhead or Charleston will do just as good as the ocean off the coast of Folly Island.
5. Sand Drills – There are a lot of exercises made more challenging by sand.  Take advantage of your surroundings by using it to your benefit.  Many running related activities, such as quick feet, skipping, and even lunges will be made more difficult on the beach.  In addition to building stronger legs, you can also improve your upper body with crab walk and spider walk.

These exercises in the Mount Pleasant sand or Isle of Palms ocean will definitely aid your cardiovascular improvement and strength your legs and arms.  It will leave you tired for a nice nap on that same beach later in the afternoon.

Contact one of our Charleston Personal Trainers if you need to get in shape or more help with these tips.