Equipment Required: a step, stable rock or bench

step ups at the beachTechnique

  1. Start by standing with your feet approximately shoulder-width apart, a little in front of a step. Your arms can be down by your sides or on your hips.
  2. Keep your back straight and step up with your left leg.
  3. With a steady and controlled motion slowly pull yourself up onto the bench using only your left leg.
  4. Step down off the step with your right foot first and then the left foot and return to the starting position.
  5. Repeat this action, alternating the leading leg each time.
  6. Repeat for a total of 10 to 20 times per leg

Key points to remember

  • Warm up before any exercise program. At the beach, a run and some stretches is a good way to start.
  • Keep your body as straight as possible to minimize stress on the lower back and legs.
  • If it is sunny, don't forget to cover yourself up with a hat or some sunscreen. If it is hot, be sure to drink lots of water to stay well hydrated.

Alternatives

  • You can increase the intensity of this exercise by holding buckets or jugs, and filling them up with sand to make some dumbbells.
  • You can also modify the intensity by increasing your pace and changing the step height.