Why you should hit the beach this weekend

CRASHING waves, sand between your toes, the slight sting of your skin and the unfortunate wedgie after getting dumped by the ocean's force; it’s safe to say the beach means so many things to so many people.

A couple at the beach

CRASHING waves, sand between your toes, the slight sting of your skin and the unfortunate wedgie after getting dumped by the ocean's force; it’s safe to say the beach means so many things to so many people.

While some wash their worries away with a quick dip after work, others take their kids down for a stroll along the shoreline, before dragging them back to their schoolbooks.

Whether it’s for the sun, the sand or the surf, the beach boasts benefits that positively impact your physical and psychological health. Just ask Julie Isbill, the founder of Bold & Beautiful Swim Squad – a community group in Manly she “accidentally” started after offering to take her friend for a swim on Boxing Day 2008. “We committed to meeting the following morning at 7am,” Julie says. “There were five of us that first morning, as my friend had done some ringing around to rally the troops for moral support.

“Since that day, ten years ago, over 17,000 swimmers have swum with Bold & Beautiful (B&B). It’s common these days to see around 300 people swimming on any given morning -- rain, hail or shine. Collectively, B&B have never missed a morning swim since the day we started, thanks to a wonderful team of volunteers who work hard to keep the group running smoothly, 365 days a year.”

Partnering with Medibank Free + Active to bring Australians free, fun and social activities, Julie believes B&B does absolute wonders for the local community in many ways. “It brings people together, gives people a reason to get up in the morning and increases fitness, cardiovascular health, general wellbeing and mental health,” Julie adds. “You know the day is always better if it starts with a swim!”

Here are five more reasons you should hit the beach this week.  

LET’S BE FRIENDS

“The friendships you make when you do something a little out of your comfort zone, early in the morning, and in a strange environment, can often foster the most wonderful bonds,” Julie says. “Especially if you swim through the winter months, it can be hard to defend against people who say, ‘you must be a little bit crazy’, however, it’s a good, fun, healthy crazy, which when shared with like-minded people, is really quite addictive.”

TIME TO GET PHYSICAL

“Swimming is a great sport, as once you’ve learned it, you can pretty much do it your entire life,” Julie adds. “The risk of injury, unless training hard, is minimal and the water supports you, so it doesn’t put strain on your joints like weight-bearing exercise can.” 

SAFETY COMES FIRST

“Swimming is something most people should be able to do, at least to a level where they’re able to stay afloat,” Julie says. “Swimming in the ocean offers challenges, including surf, rips and how to swim in the cooler winter temperatures. These skills are important to learn, and the power of Mother Nature should never be taken for granted. Swimming in groups that advocate safety enables people to learn the skills to stay safe themselves and go on to help others. Many also continue on to become involved in Surf Life Saving, to upskill further and share additional experience.”

SWIMMING IN SOMEONE ELSE’S HOUSE

“The number of truly remarkable marine encounters that you can be lucky to share while swimming in the ocean is second to none,” Julie adds. “I have had whales swim right up next to me and underneath me. Dolphins, seals, turtles, thousands of fish life, and yes, this does include sharks. Thankfully, none that have been even slightly interested in doing anything except continuing on their business." 

FRESH AIR AND A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES

“It’s important to spend some time being active in the fresh outdoors,” Julie says. “The beach offers it all: the freshness of the ocean, the wind in your hair and the sand between your toes. The endorphins flow, the friendships blossom, people’s mental health improves, motivation soars and a whole world of opportunities come forth, be swimming related or otherwise.” 


The Medibank Free + Active program is a commitment to help all Australians feel happier, healthier and more connected. With a goal to have 1.5 million Aussies take part in Free + Active in the next five years, the program encourages everyone to get together and get moving, while also bringing together a range of community based partners, highlighting free, fun and social activities. To find a local Medibank Free + Active program like Bold & Beautiful Swim Squad near you, click here.

Originally published as Why you should hit the beach this weekend