3+ Fun Workouts on the Beach

Training on the coast, in addition to being something different and fun, means exercising in a dynamic environment full of possibilities. Fortunately, both residents and visitors to Vallarta · Nayarit have the sea and the beach at their fingertips to take advantage of its benefits, as well as to engage in sports and other healthy activities to stay active and fit.

With this in mind, the Vallarta Lifestyles editorial team presents a list of fun activities for health and fitness. Some require the beach, but others are just more fun when you participate in them along the shores of our destination. Enjoy them!

Beach Volleyball

This is a very fun way to exercise as a group. Few activities can be more motivating to keep moving and getting in your workout than a little friendly competition that comes from a team sport like this.

Beach volleyball is one of those sports that requires at least four people to play. Thanks to the team aspect, camaraderie and coordination along with a competitive spirit are required. There’s nothing more fun than sharing a time with friends spiking the ball over the net.

Michael Baietti is one of the administrators of a Facebook group called PV Volleyball – Voleibol, where residents and visitors of our destination organize to play games on different beaches throughout Puerto Vallarta. The invitation to participate is open to the public, but to make sure everyone enjoys the games, players must have basic skills, such as being able to serve, pass and hit.

Although competitive games do appear from time to time, they are mostly friendly matches that foster camaraderie among the participants.

Stand Up Paddle (SUP)

Water sports, practiced with the proper safety measures, are a good option for maintaining or obtaining physical health and getting in shape. Among them, Stand Up Paddle or SUP is a fantastic option as it is easy to get started and practice.

This sport is designed to be done alone or in company, so it can be a perfect opportunity to relax and have some “me time” or to spend it in the company of family or with your partner and friends. Rowing is a whole-body workout.

Humberto Guzmán is a SUP instructor and collaborates closely with Xiutla Riders, a company that offers classes in SUP and other watersports. While for beginners the first lessons focus on stability, while more advanced ones can take more demanding tours and/or visit iconic sites of our destination, such as Los Arcos de Mismaloya and Marietas Islands.

The wind and sea conditions are important for having a positive experience that encourages you to continue practicing this sport.

Running

Running on the beach is an ideal activity for people of all ages. If you are looking to add a little extra effort to your running workout, sand offers that extra challenge you are seeking. And, of course, you can soak up the amazing ocean views and sunshine while you run.

Runners looking to try this modality should start with short 10-minute sessions with a medium-low jogging intensity. This—and all—physical activities should be practiced at your own pace, and you want to be sure to get accustomed to the sand to prevent injury.

Sandra Sánchez runs along the Malecón beach during the mornings and recommends paying close attention to the body’s signals that indicate exhaustion, as she points out that many factors must be taken into account, including the sun, water and salt. Although the perfect area for running is in the compact sand right along the water’s edge. However, softer areas can be used to raise the level of difficulty.

Although the sand invites you to run barefoot, it is certainly advisable to wear tennis shoes to avoid burns or possible cuts derived from marine debris, among other things.

Swimming

Swimming in the sea or swimming in open water (as this discipline is professionally called) is a tremendously demanding sport. The sea currents and large waves can make this already strenuous exercise even more difficult.

The high salinity of the sea can make it easier to stay afloat, which helps to offset some of the difficulty of swimming against the currents. It is a fantastic watersport that helps to take care of the physical state of the body.

Many of the beaches of Vallarta · Nayarit are known for their clear waters, so be sure to bring a good pair of goggles. Take your mink off the work in your workout and make it fun by watching the marine life below while you swim. Your mind and body will thank you once you’ve finished your workout and had fun doing it.

Outdoor workouts on the beach are a fantastic option for fitness and a great way to stay in shape. In addition, they are a great way to enjoy the beach lifestyle, connect with friends and/or family and have a lot of fun!