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This Is How You Maximize Your Beach Run

Beach running is a great way to kick things up a notch with your runs. Not only do you get gorgeous views, but you expend more effort with each step. The semi-solid surface of sand can make your runs more challenging, meaning better results in the long run. If you want to make the most of your beach running, here are some tips to help you do it right.

Start on the Hard-Packed Sand.

When doing beach runs for the first time, try to start as close to the water's edge as possible. The sand near the water is hard-packed, so you have a more solid, stable platform to push off of with each step. Running close to the water will be only marginally more challenging than running on a track, trail, or road.

Just remember to watch out for the waves! You never know when that one wave will creep up on you and soak your shoes and clothes. Keep an eye on the waves as you run.

Move to Soft Sand.

Once you've gotten a bit more accustomed to running on sand, it's time to move a bit higher on the beach to the softer sand. This is when things start to get more difficult.

It's very annoying to feel your feet sink and shift with every step, and you'll feel like you're only making slow progress. Don't worry about it! Shorten the distance of your runs, and focus on the burn in your legs and controlling your breath. Be okay with running more slowly. Even at a slower pace, the workout is easily 30 percent more difficult than running on tracks, trails, or treadmills.

At the beginning, try to run in the tracks left by bikes, lifeguard buggies, and other runners. This will give you a more solid surface to run on. However, it's better if you can break your own trail eventually, as that will force your body to work harder. Over time, you'll adapt to the increased strain and your cardiovascular and muscular endurance will significantly improve.

Run in the Water.

If you really want to raise the challenge level, run inside the water. The density of the water will drag on your feet, slowing each step and making the run more difficult. If you can do a water run, you'll find you get in amazing shape very quickly. However, do NOT run in the water with your regular running shoes — get yourself a pair of water shoes or sandals, or run barefoot.

When running in the sand, you need to focus on getting your form right. Thankfully, the sand will absorb a lot of the impact of your run, so it will reduce joint and muscle strain. With the tips above, you'll make the most out of your beach runs and kick your fitness up a couple of notches within just a few months of regular training!

[Image via Shutterstock]

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