How Playing Beach Volleyball Can Help Your Indoor Game

Hi, today I'm going to tell you about how playing sand volleyball can improve your indoor game. Many people play sand volleyball in the summer and in their offseason, and it is a great idea. Not only does it make you stronger, but it is a lot of fun. I found an article on running on sand vs. running on concrete. The main points are below.

Running on sand is a much more intensive workout than running on concrete or on the hard indoor court. You burn more calories, making the workout harder. Just think about running in sand. When you step into the sand, your foot sinks down a little, and you have to use muscle power to pull it out. There is also a lot more friction involved, so you have to work harder.

Concrete is harder on the knees. If you consistently run on hard surfaces, you may notice some pain in your knees, hips, and ankles. This is because when your feet hit the ground it causes pressure on your joints, and the constant wear and tear on your joints will definitely cause pain. You may even have to have replacement surgeries if it gets too bad. The harder the surface you are running or playing on, the harder it is on your joints. Since sand is so soft, it acts as a shock absorber. Grass would also be a good alternative to hard court in the summer and offseason.

Remember, at first, you will not be as fast as you are on the court. You will get used to it though. The more you practice in the sand, the stronger your muscles will get and the easier it will be to run on sand. You must be careful though. Since the sand is softer, it is much easier to roll an ankle or knee.

Playing sand volleyball will also give you better balance and make you more coordinated. Since you have the whole court to cover with your partner, you will get more aggressive and get to play "all positions". You strengthen your balance because the sand is not stable and you have to be able to run and and play in it.

Kerri Walsh, comparing beach volleyball to playing indoor... "You touch every other ball and, if you screw up, you only have one more person to back you up. You cant go hide in the corner."

Works Cited
"5 Benefits Of Running In Sand." Mademan RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2013.
"Beat the Summer Heat like Olympians Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Traenor." Fitznesscom RSS. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2013.
"Sand Running vs. Running on Concrete." / Fitness / Exercises. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2013.
"Volleyball QuotesVolleyball Slogans, Sayings, Mottos, Chants, and Cheers." Volleyball Quotes to Inspire and Motivate Volleyball Players. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2013.