Longe-Côte in Dunkirk: The water adventure for fitness fans!

Longe-Côte in Dunkirk: The water adventure for fitness fans!

In recent years, a new type of sport has become increasingly popular on the French North Sea coast. Longe-Côte, which translates as “along the coast,” is a trendy water and endurance sport that was invented in Dunkirk in 2006 by Thomas Wallyn. The sport is practiced in chest-high water, about 50 meters from shore, and is considered more strenuous than running on land.

The name “Longe-Côte” comes from the French expression “longer la côte,” which means “walking along the coast.” Wallyn originally developed this innovative sport as a supplement to rowing for a rowing group. Longe-Côte has now spread not only in Brittany and Corsica, but also internationally - from Dubai to Australia and Germany. Every year around 1,200 participants take part in the “Opale Longe Côte” association.

Health-promoting aspects and requirements

Longe-Côte not only promotes blood circulation, but is also gentle on the joints and can even be practiced if injured. Through the full use of the body, the activity appeals to the entire muscles and trains the cardiovascular system. Participants wade in the water wearing wetsuits and water shoes; this equipment is provided on guided tours.

On a typical Longe Côte tour the speed is around 2km/h, with movement heavily influenced by currents and personal strength. This flexibility offers an individual challenge and ensures a unique experience in the water. Aqua fitness, aqua cycling and water aerobics are sporting alternatives that pursue similar goals, but Longe-Côte differs in its intense connection to nature and the demands on participants' endurance.

Organization and costs

Wallyn offers guided tours for everyone, which can be booked through “Opale Longe Côte” or directly with him. The cost is 10 euros for the first option and 12.50 euros for Wallyn, including the rental of the necessary equipment. The tours take place all year round, but not when there are strong waves. The base center is the “Base nautique de la Licorne” in Dunkirk, where courses are also offered for those interested.

Dunkirk, located in the Hauts-de-France region near the Belgian border, can be reached both by train via Paris and by car. More information about the activities and offers around Longe-Côte is available on the Dunkerque Tourisme website.

Overall, Longe-Côte is not only an exciting sporting challenge, but also an opportunity to experience the beauty of the coast up close and effectively increase your own fitness. It is not surprising that this sport is gaining more and more fans - both in France and internationally.

For more details about Longe-Côte and what it has to offer, check out Rhine Palatinate or on prism.