Beach walking

[Katiepie]

Hello!  

I was told some time go, that walking on sand burnt more calories, as there was more reistance and you had to put more effort in.

I normally do between 3000 and 6000 steps a day on the beach, and i was wondering if I'm underestimating the number of calories burnt, as i just go by fitbits tracking and dont log it any differently.

Anyone have any ideas if it is more and how much more???

Thanks!

[LZeeW · Accepted solution]

I did a limited internet search and three sites reference this article:

http://jeb.biologists.org/content/201/13/2071.abstract

Walking on sand uses 2.1-2.7 times the amount of energy as walking on a level, paved surface.

[ADM]

Great question and a fascinating answer.  I always felt, at least annecdotally, that walking on beach sand was much more "invigorating" than regular walking.  It's helpful  to see a scientific answer that explains why it takes more energy to walk on the beach.  Thanks for sharing the question and thanks for providing such an informative answer.  Now I'm really motivated to get back to the beach 🙂  ADM

[buddysmama]

I may have to consider going back to Myrtle Beach and get some beach walking in. I love walking in the evening to relax after dinner.  This gives me even better reason if it takes more energy, I'll definitely sleep better.

[USAF-Larry]

---

@buddysmama wrote:

I may have to consider going back to Myrtle Beach and get some beach walking in. I love walking in the evening to relax after dinner.  This gives me even better reason if it takes more energy, I'll definitely sleep better.

---

I don't need an excuse to go to Myrtle Beach!  LOL  I love parking my RV right next to the beach and enjoying the warm breezes blowing across me in the lounge chair... 

[TXAnneV]

The only thing I would say is...if you have any foot issues (I have PF) be very careful walking barefoot on the beach!
I did last month, and set my recovery back...ouchy, and not fun.

[USAF-Larry]

@TXAnneV, I don't walk anywhere barefooted - that is one thing my Internist drilled into me years ago about diabetics and foot care.