What Are the Benefits of Walking Barefoot on the Beach?

You may love walks on the beach because they are peaceful or romantic. The sand between your toes and the crashing waves paint a beautiful backdrop for any occasion. Aside from being terrific for your mental health, current research suggests that barefoot walks on the beach may be very beneficial for your body as well.

  1. Shock Absorption

    • Researchers at Rush Medical College have shown that barefoot walking, even though it eliminates the cushion of a shoe, can decrease joint loads on your knees up to 11.9 percent. They believe that by eliminating shoes, you will walk in a more natural stride, increasing your body’s efficiency. This does not mean you should throw out your shoes and go barefoot everywhere; however, it is a good idea to get comfortable with barefoot walking. Your knees will thank you.

    Walking Surface

    • Sand creates a beneficial surface for you to walk on. Walking on hard surfaces, such as concrete, is very hard on your joints and connective tissue. Every time you step onto concrete, your body absorbs shock, because the surface does not respond to your step. Prolonged exposure to concrete has been linked to many injuries, including Achilles tendinitis. This condition causes moderate to severe pain and swelling in the Achilles tendon, which attaches your heel to your calf. When you take walks, expose yourself to a variety of forgiving surfaces; sand is a smart choice because it is soft terrain.

    Proprioception

    • Proprioception can be defined as your awareness of joint motion and joint position. Closing your eyes and touching your right index finger to your left elbow is an example of using proprioception. Even though you cannot see your elbow, your skin receptors, nerves and muscles combine their proprioceptive abilities to execute the task.

      A study from Concordia University showed that proprioception in your feet declines as you age. As proprioception decreases, your risk of fall and injury increases. The study went on to show that wearing shoes further hinders your body’s natural proprioception. By removing footwear, you are helping to restore your body’s proprioceptive capabilities.

    Calories

    • Walking on sand as opposed to a uniform surface is more difficult, and thus more beneficial for your body. A 2006 study published in the journal “Ergonomics” showed that walking on sand increased subjects’ heart rate and VO2 — how much oxygen they consumed — by as much as 1.6 times. This study reinforces the belief that, although walking on sand may be more difficult, it is more beneficial for your heart and lungs and you will burn more calories in the process.