Getting Ready for Beach Running at Skyathon
It’s finally April! In a few days, we are flying to Boracay for the much awaited Skyathon 2013. If you happen to be doing a beach run in your escapade this summer, here are some tips to take note for a good running experience.
Run on wet sand and on flat ground. Instead of running on the sloped area of the beach, choose running in flat grounds. Stay close to the edge of the water without getting your feet wet as this is the area with packed sand. A low tide creates the most level, hard-packed, similar to a soft trail, surface for running.
Work with the heat and run by your effort level. Don’t expect to run your typical race pace as running on the beach is harder than road runs. The hot and humid conditions can also slow you down. Don’t try to beat the heat. Take walking breaks as needed.
Stay hydrated. Make sure to hydrate properly before, during and after the run to avoid dehydration and other heat-related illnessness. You can cool yourself during your run by splashing water on your head and body. The water will have a cooling effect as it evaporates from your skin.
Protect your skin and accessorize. Running on the beach means running under the direct sunlight. Wear UV-blocking running sunglasses, a hat or a visor and apply waterproof sunscreen to protect your eyes, face and skin from the sun. Wear light colored, loose fitting running gear that will keep you cooler.
Shoes vs Barefoot. There is no specific shoes made for beach running. You can use your road shoes but be prepare to clean it up and get all the sand out of your shoes after your runs. The shoes will protect your feet from stones and other debris that might hurt you.
Barefoot running is another option. Going barefoot is a good way to build up strength in your feet and a lot of other benefits (Barefoot Running Benefits Explained in Recent Breakthrough Research). If you start running barefoot on the beach too fast or too frequently, you could injure yourself so make sure to take it slow and easy. Consider these tips if you plan to Start Barefoot Running.
Are you now ready for your summer runs? For those running in Skyathon 2013, see you there and let’s enjoy running on the white sands of Boracay!
About The Author
ChicksNiManok
Que Gavan, known as ChicksNiManok in the running community, is the better half of the brains behind Takbo.ph (registered and managed by Runningpeak Event Management and Services). You can also read more of her homeschool family adventures in FilipinoHomeschooler(dot)com.