5 surprising benefits of sand dune climbing
What's the story
Sand dune climbing is a perfect union of adventure and workout. Although it looks like a casual outdoor activity, it comes with some unexpected benefits. From improving physical fitness to augmenting mental wellness, sand dune climbing can prove to be a fulfilling experience for anyone who steps into the sea of sand. Here are five surprising benefits of this one-of-a-kind activity.
#1
Boosts cardiovascular health
Climbing sand dunes also makes for an excellent cardiovascular workout. Since you're walking on uneven terrain and shifting sands, it requires more effort than walking on flat surfaces, which ensures that your heart rate increases and your circulation improves. This kind of exercise strengthens the heart muscle and can lead to better overall cardiovascular health in the long run.
#2
Enhances muscle strength
The resistance offered by sand makes climbing dunes an excellent way to build muscle strength. As you push through the grains, your legs, core, even upper body muscles engage more intensely than they would on solid ground. Tackling dunes regularly can make you more toned and increase your endurance.
#3
Improves balance and coordination
The unstable surface of sand dunes poses a challenge to your balance and coordination skills. Every step you take needs to be carefully adjusted to ensure that you are stable, which ultimately improves your proprioception, or the body's ability to sense where it is in space. Over time, this can make you more agile and coordinated in your daily life.
#4
Promotes mental well-being
Going by the fact that you're surrounded by nature while climbing sand dunes, it's good for your mental health too. The wide-open views and fresh air have a calming effect that lowers your stress levels. The physical exertion also releases endorphins—natural mood lifters—that make you feel happy and relaxed.
Tip 5
Encourages mindfulness practice
Sand dune climbing promotes mindfulness as every step you take on the moving sands requires you to focus. This level of focus increases present-moment awareness, which is the essence of mindfulness practice. Doing this regularly can drastically reduce anxiety levels by putting you in a state of mental clarity and coolness, which can be used not just during the climb but in day-to-day life situations.