Beach Volleyball Winter Training & Gear Prep

Let’s be real here—when winter rolls around, even the most hardcore beach volleyball enthusiasts among us sometimes feel tempted to trade the sand for a cozy couch, a warm blanket, and a steaming mug of hot chocolate. And you know what? That’s totally fine.

It’s okay to take a breather and enjoy the winter vibes. But let’s not kid ourselves: staying off the court for months can make it so much harder to get back into the swing of things when summer comes back around. Nobody wants to lose their edge or start from scratch, right?

So, if you want to keep playing, stay in shape, and still enjoy the game you love through the colder months, here are a few tips to make beach volleyball in winter a lot more bearable (and even fun).

 

1. Dress Smart Before Hitting the Sand

Winter beach volleyball is all about dressing smart to tackle the cold. Sand socks are your best friends when the sand gets icy cold—trust me, your toes will thank you.

On top of that, think about layering for your body: start with a base layer like a thermal shirt, add a lightweight pullover, and finish with a jacket or hoodie you can peel off as you warm up. Keeping both your feet and your body cozy will make a world of difference out there. Think of it like an onion—but a way cooler, beach volleyball-playing onion.

Before heading out, check the weather and make sure you’re prepped to handle the chill without freezing or overheating. Once you’re on the sand and diving for balls, you’ll appreciate having the flexibility to adjust your layers.

 

 

2. Stay Dry & Bring a Brush

Here’s a hack you didn’t know you needed: bring a brush. Yup, a plain ol’ brush from the hardware store. Instead of rinsing off with cold water after a game, use the brush to dust the sand off your skin and clothes. You’ll stay warmer and save yourself the shivering.

Also, pack a change of clothes so you’re not heading home in sweaty, damp gear—nothing ruins the vibe faster than catching a chill after a killer match. Stay warm, stay dry, and you’ll enjoy the game way more.

 

 

3. Warm Up Properly

We’ve all been guilty of skipping the warm-up when we’re eager to hit the court, but in winter, this is a big no-no. Cold muscles are way more prone to injuries, so take your time to stretch, jog, or do some light exercises before jumping into gameplay. Trust me, your body will thank you when you’re not hobbling around with a pulled muscle later.

Start slow, ease into it, and make sure you’re feeling good before you start smashing serves.

 

 

4. Care for Your Gear

Winter can be brutal on your volleyball gear, especially your ball. If your volleyball gets wet, dry it off ASAP to avoid damage. Most volleyballs aren’t fully waterproof, and water can seriously damage them, leaving you with a soggy, misshapen mess.

The same goes for court lines or nets if you bring them yourself. Wet gear can develop nasty smells or even mold (yep, I said it), so take a few minutes to dry everything off before packing it away. Treat your gear right, and it’ll last you for many more games to come.

 

 

5. Embrace the Wind

Maybe every time there is wind, you complain and it makes you less motivated to play. But let me remind you that beach volleyball, unlike indoor, is all about adapting to the weather.

Wind can be frustrating when you don’t know how to use it, but it can also be a powerful tool to improve your game when you learn to use it to your advantage.

Practicing in the wind makes you smarter and stronger as a player. It forces you to focus on ball control and positioning. Plus, if you master serving in windy conditions, you’ll rack up more points and aces—not just during winter, but year-round.

Next time the wind picks up, grab your ball and hit the sand. Use this season to embrace the challenge and level up your skills.

 

 

6. Keep Training & Build Strength

Consistency is key. Even if it’s cold outside, try to hit the court a couple of times a week to stay sharp. On days when the weather is just too brutal, consider mixing things up with indoor volleyball, grass courts, or even gym workouts. Strength training, cardio, and agility drills can keep you in top form so you’re ready to crush it when summer rolls back around.

Remember, winter is a great time to focus on improving specific skills or building up your endurance. You’re not just maintaining—you’re getting better.

 

 

7. It’s Okay to Stay Home Sometimes

Let’s be honest: there will be days when it’s too cold, too rainy, or you’re just not feeling it. And that’s totally fine!

Don’t beat yourself up for taking a day off. Curl up with that hot chocolate, watch a pro beach volleyball match or a tutorial on YouTube, and soak in the knowledge. Watching others play can inspire you and teach you new strategies for your next game.

Sometimes, the best way to improve your game is by giving yourself a break.

 

 

For many of us, winter can feel like a bummer—the sand is colder, the days are shorter, and the beach vibes aren’t quite the same. But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. Think of it as an opportunity to work on different aspects of your game, build strength, and come back stronger when summer rolls around.

And most importantly, remember that beach volleyball is supposed to be fun! Don’t stress yourself out about playing every day or keeping a perfect routine. Stay sharp, stay warm, and enjoy the game—because, at the end of the day, that’s what it’s all about.

 

Ready to gear up for winter? Check out our SandVoll store for everything you need to keep playing year-round.