Looking for a great workout while you're vacationing this summer? Taking a sunset or sunrise jog on the beach sounds pretty simple, doesn't it? While there's no doubt that working out in the sand provides great fitness benefits and unbeatable scenery, there are some steps you need to take to ensure you're doing it safely. Before you even hit the beach, regardless of the time of day (or even the time of year), slather yourself with plenty of sunscreen. Use the sweat- and waterproof formulas and choose one that's at least an SPF 30 or higher. Layer your clothing if it's chilly, and look for moisture-wicking materials so that sweat quickly evaporates. If you like to run in the morning, then wear a swimsuit underneath your running clothes - you may want to take a dip to cool off afterward. Running in the sand can make you very strong, because you work twice as hard on an uneven surface.
But running on sand is risky, especially if you choose to run barefoot. Ease into barefoot running gradually - there's great potential to injure your ankles. And depending on the beach, there could be broken glass, shells or other debris that can injure your feet. The best place to run on the beach is near the water, at low tide. The sand will be more compact and easier to navigate. Be careful if the beach has a severe slope; this can put a strain on your knees and ankles and cause injury. Have plenty of water available for your workout - when it's hot, you need more water, and you can't rehydrate with salty ocean water.