Beach Volleyball
Two-a-side net game on sand.
How to start
Play casual 2v2 games on sand, starting with easy rallies and learning to move in sand.
How to progress
Play weekly in summer.
What the evidence says
Evidence: limited
We found no trials of this particular sport. The general physical activity evidence applies.
Take care: Sand is hard on calves and ankles. Warm up and stay hydrated and protect from the sun.
Sources
12-week starter plan
A weekly summer game.
Tick each week as you finish it; your ticks are saved on this device only. Repeat a week if it felt hard. Weeks 4, 8 and 12 hold steady so you can settle. This is a general plan, not medical advice.
Add reminders to your calendar
Pick your days and time. You will download a calendar file that adds 12 weeks of reminders to Google, Apple or Outlook calendar.
Calories and weekly minutes
Enter your details for a rough estimate. Based on about 6 METs (Typical effort for this activity (estimated)). Real figures vary by 20% or more between people.
Tips and common mistakes
Tips
- Use sun protection.
- Drink water.
- Warm up calves.
Common mistakes
- Skipping sun cream.
- Not hydrating.
- No warm-up.
Kit and cost
Low Approximate UK prices.
- Sun cream and a hat
- A ball
- Court hire (about £5 to £10)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a partner?
Yes, it is usually 2v2.
Is it good workout?
Sand makes it more demanding.
Is it only for summer?
Indoor beach courts exist.
Good for: Fun & social Power & speed Heart & fitness
Compare with similar options
| Beach Volleyball | Netball | Volleyball | Touch and Tag Rugby | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical session | 60 min × 1/wk | 60 min × 1/wk | 60 min × 1/wk | 60 min × 1/wk |
| Effort | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ | ●●●○○ |
| Cost | Low cost | Low cost | Low cost | Low cost |
| Equipment | Basic kit | Basic kit | Basic kit | Basic kit |
| Impact | Medium impact | Medium impact | Medium impact | Medium impact |
| Fitness needed | Some fitness | Some fitness | Some fitness | Some fitness |
| Evidence | limited | limited | limited | limited |