Longe-cote: water walking, even in winter – Longe-cote is a pedestrian activity during which hikers progress at sea, submerged up to the waist. Relaxing and beneficial, this aquatic walk can be practised in any season, even in winter, by respecting the basic safety rules and warmly equipping yourself.
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Origin and benefits of aquatic hiking
Also known as sea walking or water hiking, longe-coast is a bodybuilding technique that involves walking through water, possibly using a paddle. Initially, this pedestrian discipline helped athletes train for rowing without putting too much strain on their joints. However, its many assets have attracted a broad audience since its birth in 2005. Now, its clubs, with or without a paddle, and aquatic hiking trails have on coasts: the blue courses.
Water walking offers multiple benefits and is suitable for athletes of all levels :
It improves endurance, cardiorespiratory capacity and power without causing joint trauma.
Like all aquatic disciplines, it is beneficial for stimulating blood circulation.
The effort is more intense than with conventional walking, thanks to the resistance of the water.
It works on balance and strengthens the muscles of the whole body. It solicits, in particular, the arms and the back when it involves the handling of a paddle.
Thanks to a pleasant beach setting, it promotes nervous relaxation and relaxation.
What is water walking?
The practice immersed in the sea up the waist, without a paddle to progress and maintain balance. The walk can be slow or more sporty and, depending on the level of sea agitation, other gestures may be required, such as crossing waves. With water up to the diaphragm, you are sure to preserve your abdominals and lower back muscles.
The water walking technique consists of moving the legs and arms simultaneously, taking long steps, leaning slightly forward: with each advance of the right leg, you must swing the left arm and vice versa. The routes are generally 3 to 4 km long. Roll your foot out for the entire movement and contract your abs to maintain balance. With a paddle, the gesture is more technical because the synchronization of the legs is less natural: plant the tip of the paddle well in front of you, you will quickly get your bearings.
Longe-cote: equip yourself well in winter
Aquatic walking is practised all year round, including in winter. In any season, the longe-côte requires appropriate equipment, particularly slippers, to avoid injury. In the cold season, when the water is below 12°C, cover yourself well to limit the risk of hypothermia.
To enjoy. The longe-cote in complete safety even in winter, the French hiking federation gives valuable recommendations, for example:
Go only to authorized areas located within 300 meters of the coast.
Find out about the weather, especially to avoid offshore winds and favour the calmest moment between two tides.
Do not practice alone and warn loved ones, especially when starting. Do not hesitate to equip yourself with buoys or a life jacket, especially for the first sessions.
How to dress in winter for water walking?
To practice aquatic hiking in winter, bring the following equipment:
A full suite similar to those used for windsurfing, surfing or scuba diving
Nautical slippers or ankle boots with thin soles found in the diving or windsurfing section of sports stores: they are helpful to avoid cuts on the feet, to be less cold and not to come into contact with live fish or jellyfish
Gloves, to be chosen very flexible if you have to handle a paddle and webbed if you want to propel yourself more easily
A balaclava is very useful to protect you from the spray in freezing weather or case of wind etc.
Five essential accessories for hiking along the coast in winter
To complete your winter longe-cote outfit and improve your comfort, you can equip yourself with these few accessories:
A hooded cape to change more easily on the beach after the session
A waterproof pocket to protect your belongings, especially your phone, which can help count your steps, for example
A waterproof container to store your wetsuit and transport it easily etc.
