Pregnant Masaba Gupta is setting cardio goals — that too on the beach

 

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But beyond the scenic appeal, can doing cardio on the beach offer any health benefits?

Swapping the gym for the sand offers a unique and invigorating way to get your heart rate pumping while enjoying the beauty of the coast. Here’s why beach cardio might be the perfect addition to your fitness regimen, according to Dr Ather Pasha, consultant internal medicine at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad:

Masaba Gupta’s morning workout (Source: Instagram)

Boost Your Burn and Build Strength: The uneven terrain of the beach adds an extra challenge to your workout. Running or walking on sand requires more effort than on pavement, burning more calories and engaging more muscle groups to maintain stability. Dr Pasha confirmed this, highlighting how beach jogging “provides increased resistance and is a good option for strength training.” This extra effort particularly benefits the glutes, core, and ankles as you work to propel yourself forward.

Low-Impact Bliss and Improved Oxygen Intake: Unlike concrete or asphalt, the soft sand provides a gentler surface for your joints. This is ideal for those with joint pain or injuries, allowing you to maintain a cardio routine with minimal impact. Dr Pasha emphasised this benefit, stating that the soft sand “creates a lower impact in comparison to harder surfaces,” potentially reducing injuries to knees and hips. Additionally, the fresh ocean air, rich in iodine, can improve lung function and oxygen intake, as Dr Pasha explained, making breathing more effective and combating fatigue.

Vitamin D, Mental Well-being, and Endless Options: Sunshine exposure triggers vitamin D production in your body, essential for bone health and immune function. Plus, the fresh ocean air is free of pollutants and can improve lung function. Beach workouts also offer a mental health boost. Dr Pasha highlighted the benefit of exposure to sunlight, which can increase serotonin production, also known as the “happy hormone,” improving mood and sleep quality.

Beyond running and walking, the beach offers a variety of cardio possibilities. Try beach volleyball, swimming laps in the ocean, high knees through the shallows, or sandcastle-building sprints.

While beach workouts offer numerous benefits, it’s important to be mindful of your surroundings. Be aware of rip currents, watch out for uneven surfaces, and avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day. Sunscreen, water, and proper footwear are essential for a safe and enjoyable beach workout.

Gym vs beach cardio (Source: Freepik)

Is beach cardio better than the gym?

Dr Pasha acknowledged that there’s no definitive answer to whether beach cardio is “healthier” than the gym. However, exercising outdoors with more connection to nature can offer advantages. Beach cardio can be a higher-intensity workout due to the increased resistance of the sand, potentially leading to more calorie burn and improved cardiovascular health.

Ultimately, the best workout depends on individual preference and health goals. If you can’t access the beach, any physical activity is a win for your overall health.