3 Exercises to Do at the Beach

Summer is here along Florida's Gulf Coast! That means it's time to hit those beautiful beaches for some family fun. While the beach is a great place to relax, it's also an excellent setting for a body-toning workout. With these three exercises, anyone can get fit while enjoying a day at Florida's world-famous beaches. Be sure to take the proper health precautions and have fun.

Go for a Jog

Even with all the fancy fitness equipment out there, running is still one of the best aerobic exercises a person can do. Individuals should try to exercise within 55% to 85% of their maximum heart rate for at least 20 minutes for best results. The resistance provided by the sand will help shape leg muscles while avoiding impact on the knee joints that can cause road runners pain.

Walking Plank

This exercise also takes advantage of the added resistance offered by the sand. Start in a plank position—the same as the start of a pushup. Lower the left elbow to the sand then the right. From the lower plank position, raise up back to the palms one arm at a time. This exercise engages the core, chest, shoulders, and triceps, helping to sculpt a toned torso.

The Skater

This exercise is so named because people look like speed skaters when performing it. Push off from the right foot and leap lightly to the left foot. While landing, sweep the right foot behind the left. Do the same in the other direction until completing three sets of 10-15 repetitions per side. This is a good cardio exercise that also engages the leg muscles.

At Sandestin Executive Health and Wellness Center, our staff takes the time to care for patients as people, not problems. We strongly believe in the benefits of a health-conscious lifestyle, and that includes making exercise a fun part of everyday activities.

4 Tips for Managing Seasonal Allergies

Instead of suffering from seasonal allergies, people can institute simple precautions that often improve symptoms.

Identify Allergens

Common allergens include mold spores, weeds, grasses, and pollen from specific trees or shrubs. The time of the year when allergies arise can be a clue about which allergens are responsible. Generally, trees and shrubs pollinate in the spring, grasses pollinate in early summer, and weeds pollinate in late summer and early autumn. Visit an allergist for testing to diagnose specific allergens to avoid these sources.

Monitor Pollen Counts

Meteorologists monitor pollen counts in local areas. These counts alert residents about the amount of pollen in the air based on the humidity level, temperature, wind, and cloud cover. Those with seasonal allergies should avoid spending time outside on days when the pollen count is high.

Eliminate Allergens in the Home

Make an allergy-free zone in the home. Keep windows closed during peak times to prevent pollen from entering. Remove carpets and rugs to eliminate dust. Maintain fireplaces carefully to prevent soot from entering the home. Watch for moisture issues and clean mold and mildew promptly to prevent airborne spores. Clean HVAC ductwork annually before the heating season to eliminate dust mites.

Managing triggers that cause unpleasant symptoms can make life more pleasant for people who suffer from allergies. Extra relief can also be obtained via allergy medicines from the local pharmacy.

Health Precautions to Take at the Beach

Nothing says summer fun like a family trip to the beach. The sun, the sand, the waves—it all adds up to a natural playground for people of all ages. To keep enjoying the beach, it's important to take a few health precautions.

Wear Sunscreen

Nothing will ruin a day at the beach more than a bad sunburn. In addition to the immediate discomfort, long-term exposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer. Use an SPF of 30 or higher and be sure to reapply after swimming. For people who forget, aloe can soothe and heal the skin. More severe burns may require a trip to a pharmacist for treatment.

Beware of Jellyfish

While most people are rightly afraid of sharks in the ocean, it's far more common that another creature will hurt you at the beach: jellyfish. Jellyfish are common in Florida, with dozens of species present near the beach. Be aware that they can be in the water and be on the lookout for them. In the event of a sting, remove the tentacles and apply hydrocortisone cream to soothe the pain. For run-ins with species like the Portuguese Man-Of-War, a trip to urgent care is advised.

Destin Fun Guide: Activities for the Whole Family

Staying active is vitally important for the health and wellbeing of your entire family. In fact, doctors recommend at least 150 minutes a week of aerobic activity for a healthy lifestyle. Thankfully, there is a wide variety of family-friendly activities in the Destin area. If you enjoy hiking, swimming, live music, or other activities, there is something to get the whole family up and moving.

Crab Island

Located near the Destin bridge is a local hotspot, Crab Island. This mostly submerged island features a huge inflatable fun park, complete with slides, climbing walls, a trampoline, and more.

Concerts at the Landing

Get up and boogie! The Landing in downtown Fort Walton features a free outdoor concert with great dancing tunes every Friday night in June and July.

Henderson Beach State Park

Escape the summer crowds and enjoy the pristine beaches and water at Henderson Park. Love to hike? This park offers the only hiking trail available through Destin’s protected sand dunes. This beautiful, hilly trail is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry family members, as well.

These are just a few of Destin's exciting options for getting your family the exercise that doctors recommend. Don't forget the tried and true classics—swimming in the ocean and running around on the beach!