Which Sport to Practice in the Summer at the Beach?

Beach Volleyball

Are you going on vacation with family or friends? Is sunbathing not really your thing? Good news: if you’re four people, you can play a game of beach volleyball! Indeed, the cousin of regular volleyball is traditionally played two against two. (But if you have more people, nothing stops you from tweaking the rules a bit—after all, you’re on vacation, right?)

To get started, you’ll need a net, a ball, and something to mark out a 8-meter by 16-meter court. And that’s it.

A Cardio and Fun Sport

According to Harvard Medical School, half an hour of beach volleyball can burn up to 336 calories. Yes, with only two players on such a large surface, you’ll have to move around to catch the balls. And that’s obviously great for the heart.

Another big advantage of beach volleyball? It’s a team sport with minimal impact. Not only do you not come into contact with your opponents, but the sand also acts as a shock absorber: you can dive into the sand safely.

Bonus point: our coastlines are full of ready-to-use courts. It’s a great way to meet other vacationers who are as sporty as you and to join in joyful tournaments.

Beach Volleyball: To Improve Your Balance and Flexibility

The sand gives a greater inertia to all your movements. Every gesture requires more force and muscle. But because it’s shifting, it requires extra effort to maintain your posture and agility. When playing on a surface that moves slightly, you must constantly adjust your balance to stay stable.

Engaging your wrists and ankles in this way is perfect for improving your flexibility and coordination, in a context that protects your joints.

To Avoid Injuries During Beach Volleyball

Although it’s a safe and particularly accessible sport, you’re not immune to a few minor inconveniences. But no worries—nothing will ruin your vacation!

Did you hit those smashes and serves with a little too much force? Did you land awkwardly after a jump? This might cause some discomfort. If that happens, massage your joints with the regenerating serum Shock and Roll. The combination of the active RGTA® (Regenerating Agent) complex and hyaluronic acid will soothe the affected areas and allow the painful zones to heal. Ideal if you want a rematch tomorrow!

Canoeing and Kayaking

Is hiking more your thing? Not a fan of swimming and beach sports? What if you used your seaside vacation to try canoeing or kayaking?

Canoe vs. Kayak: What’s the Difference?

• Both canoeing and kayaking refer to a type of canoe that can accommodate up to four people.

• The kayak was invented by the people of the Arctic Circle. It is practiced while sitting, with your legs stretched out in front of you, and using a double paddle.

• Canoeing, on the other hand, was developed by Native Americans. In a canoe, you sit on your legs, using a single paddle.

• The canoe is more stable and spacious, making it ideal for a few days of coastal hiking. You can store your gear without too much effort, and it’s especially suitable for outings with younger adventurers.

• The kayak, however, is known for being flexible, fast, and easy to maneuver. It’s perfect for facing waves and rough water, or for a more sporty experience. It’s also highly recommended for beginners.

Canoeing and Kayaking: A Complete Sport!

Can you swim? You can paddle! Whether it’s hiking, exploring, kayak polo, speed races, or slalom... there’s definitely a version of canoeing or kayaking that suits your level and preferences.

Open spaces, iodized air, the calm of the sea, and the sensation of gliding: canoeing and kayaking are perfect for relieving tension and staying active. The paddling movements will engage your arm muscles (biceps and triceps), as well as your back and abdominal muscles. As for your legs, they will be used especially to help you maintain your balance.

Our Tips for Enjoying Your Outing

• Plan Your Trip:

Whether you’re bringing your own gear or renting it, make sure to plan your route in advance. Do you want a sporty outing or something more contemplative? What are the physical conditions of the people accompanying you? In any case, don’t overestimate yourself for your first outings. And if the weather isn’t favorable, delay your adventure!

Never set off without a lifejacket (it’s mandatory anyway), a whistle (to signal your presence if necessary), and your mobile phone, carefully protected in an appropriate case.

• Protect Yourself from the Sun and Salt:

Even on cloudy days, the reflection makes UV rays aggressive. Hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, long sleeves—don’t overdo it when protecting yourself from the sun. As for the salt, it’s particularly irritating for the skin. Bring some sea soap, wash up regularly, and apply a generous amount of Bye Bye Burn to soothe burns, aid healing, and strengthen your skin.

• Recover After Your Outing:

A 5-hour outing equals about 20,000 paddle strokes! If you’re not used to it, by the end of the day, you may feel discomfort in your elbows and shoulders. Massage yourself with Shock and Roll serum: in addition to relaxing you, it will ease the tissue and help you recover better!

Open Water Swimming

Swimming in the sea is a particularly beneficial activity that you can easily integrate into your recovery routine. Fifteen minutes of front crawl in the ocean can lower your body temperature, help your heart return to a resting rhythm, and prevent muscle soreness.

Swimming in open water is especially exhilarating. When you’re used to swimming in a pool, the open water gives you a feeling of freedom and escape that can’t be matched. Sea water, being salty, is denser than fresh water, which helps you float better and makes leg movements easier.

For the more sensitive swimmers: did you know that the temperature of seawater is especially interesting for activating your metabolism? Indeed, to fight the cold of the water, your body will need to use more energy and stimulate your blood circulation. In the medium and long term, it’s even good for your immune system. But that’s not all: swimming in the sea also helps release endorphins.

Caution: While swimming in open water is both a complete and accessible sport, it still requires some preparation and precaution.

• Prepare in a Pool:

Even though the sensations are different, knowing how to swim properly in a pool is essential before attempting a more ambitious swim in the sea. Pools are perfect for learning the technical basics necessary for open water swimming, such as breathing techniques and arm and leg movements. The better your crawl stroke, the better you will feel in the water.

• Get the Right Gear:

When swimming in the sea, it’s essential to be as visible as possible. Don’t go on an adventure without a bright swim cap or your fluorescent swim buoy. This buoy isn’t just an accessory. In addition to making you visible, it allows you to rest in case of cramps or fatigue. Some models even come with waterproof pockets where you can store snacks.

• Don’t Swim Just Anywhere!

Regardless of your swimming level, stay within the monitored areas. Never swim straight out to sea; always swim parallel to the shore. Anticipate your route by identifying landmarks so you always know where you are. And of course, before putting on your flippers, check the weather, the direction and strength of the wind, the water quality, and whether there are jellyfish around.

• Take Care of Your Skin!

Don’t go out without proper sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen (no matter your skin tone), UV protection lycra, or a wetsuit are essential to protect yourself from the harsh UV rays near the coast.

Swimming in a wetsuit? To avoid burns, especially around the neck, feel free to apply some greasy lotion to protect yourself from friction. And once you’re done, rinse off thoroughly and apply a generous amount of RGENtec Bye Bye Burn on irritated areas.

Since sea water tends to dry out the skin and make it more fragile, especially on the face, nothing works better than applying After Sport Ritual serum to help your skin recover.