Sunshine, Summertime & Beach Volleyball
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As the warm weather of spring and summer approaches, we begin to anticipate all the fun outdoor activities the North Florida area offers. These include many activities on and off the beach. Beach volleyball is a popular choice and fun social activity. Beach volleyball can be played year-round. Enjoy the sunshine!
Beach Volleyball is a fun outdoor activity
What is Beach Volleyball?
Beach volleyball is a team sport that has two teams and was first played in the early 1900s. It was traditionally played with six players on each side, similarly to indoor volleyball. The first beach volleyball nets appeared in Santa Monica, California in the 1920s. Over time, it has developed into competitive play at the college and Olympic levels. Today, there are two players on each side, on a full-size court.
The terms ‘beach volleyball’ and ‘sand volleyball’ are often used interchangeably. Schools all over the country have developed ‘sand volleyball’ in areas where playing on the beach is not an option. Hence, the term ‘sand volleyball’. Sand volleyball is a spring sport.
One of the great things about beach volleyball is you can play almost anywhere in Northeast Florida. We have many beautiful beaches such as Fernandina and St. Augustine. You can always find a perfect spot to play beach volleyball. It’s a great family sport because all ages can play.
Find a beach and give it a try. All you need is a net, a ball, and a few friends. Anyone can do it. Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Is Beach Volleyball a Good Workout?
Beach volleyball is a great workout for active individuals. The activities required in the sport:
- strengthen the upper and lower body
- challenge balance
- develop endurance
- improve hand-eye coordination
It also improves muscle tone. Beach volleyball can improve agility and speed. It’s a great workout that is outdoors and very social.
Playing volleyball on the beach is a great cardio workout. It is a full-body workout and burns calories all while having fun. Beach volleyball is also a good sport for team building. It is also a great way to get some vitamin D. Spend more time outdoors.
Benefits of beach volleyball include:
- Increase upper body strength
- Develop toned legs
- Improve heart health
- Reduce stress
- Improve focus
- Increase happiness
Getting fresh air and spending time outside can help reduce stress. Beach volleyball is a sport that can improve your well-being and your mental health. Get outside and get moving. NE Florida has several beach volleyball clubs. Joining a beach volleyball club can help you improve your skills. Beach volleyball clubs are a great way to meet new friends.
What Injuries Do Beach Volleyball Players Get?
It is essential to properly train the shoulders, spine, knees, and ankles before playing. Common injuries associated with beach volleyball may involve the ankle, knee, low back, shoulder or finger. The quick movements associated with the sport and the sand surface may contribute to ankle sprains in a weak ankle. Repetitive jumping may result in irritation or inflammation of the patellar tendon.
Landing on an uneven, soft surface and extension of the spine may cause strain or associated pain to the lumbar spine. Similarly, the repetitive overhead motion of the arm may result in strain to the shoulder musculature. Frequent contact with the ball can injure the fingers. Jammed fingers can be painful.
If you do suffer a minor injury, the RICE method is recommended. Rest, Ice, Compress & Elevate. To learn more about RICE, click here. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Dynamic stretching can help prevent beach volleyball injuries
How to Prevent Beach Volleyball Injuries
Injury prevention should include a proper warm-up before the activity. This includes dynamic stretching and light aerobic exercise. It is essential to properly strengthen the shoulders, knees, low back, and ankles to meet the sport’s demands. If you have had previous ankle injuries, you could use a brace or taping for extra support. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the terrain of the court before play. It can be played on hard or soft sand.
Beach volleyball is a fun way to exercise, socialize and enjoy the sunny weather! With a bit of preparation and proper strengthening, it can be an excellent sport for the active individual. Don’t forget to hydrate!
JOI physical therapist can treat your beach volleyball injury
JOI Rehab
If you have a beach volleyball injury, the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute offers physical therapy at 12 convenient locations across Northeast Florida. After completing rehabilitation, patients can expect to have reduced pain and improved mobility. Let JOI get you on the road to recovery!
To make an appointment with one of our JOI physical therapists call 904-858-7045, book online or click below.
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