Recently I have put myself through a “30 day bootcamp” of sorts. Generally this meant getting out to run and walk as many days as I could. On the first Monday after my bootcamp, I did my usual 5km run/walk, then decided I would “reward” myself with a barefoot beach walk for my remaining 5km.
Remind me never to reward myself with a barefoot beach walk again! I discovered exactly why I like walking the path next to the beach and not on it. There are a few reasons.
1. Sand. 2. Water. 3. Sandflies. 4. Sea Lice.
5. Dead Fish. 6. Jellyfish. 7. Unrecognizable Objects Washed Up On The Beach. 8. Sand.
Did you notice how I mentioned sand twice there? Sand is really hard to walk on! It slowed me down significantly. My time for this 10km was more like my time for a 15km walk. I was on that beach for an hour and a half, using muscles which apparently do not get used in my regular workouts, the way they screamed at me.
I do enjoy the occasional sea shell, I do like the occasional wave washing over my feet, I do enjoy the scenery.
But I think barefoot beach walks should be limited to around 2km, preferably on beaches which have a shower or some kind of tap arrangement where I can wash the sand off my feet.
I will wait till my next 30 day bootcamp is over, before I “reward” myself with a beach walk again!
Speaking of rewards, I finally made it to my goal weight. I had some ideas of things I wanted to do once I saw that number on the scale – horse riding – indoor sky diving – some kind of adventure course. I may do all three. We will see! ;)
Sand is really uncomfortable to run or walk long distances on! Your accomplishment is outstanding and you’ve definitely earned your list of rewards!
Wow. What great exercise but, even better, what an uplifting walk. I might have to work on my toe nails before I get back it. I suppose mine could at least be trimmed.