Low-impact workouts that are still very effective

Low-impact workouts that are still very effective

10 July 2019

If you’re looking to shake up your workout routine or give your body and joints a break from excessive pressure, you might want to consider low-impact workouts. Though easier on the body than the high-impact alternatives, low-impact workouts are still great for helping you to build up strength and endurance; furthermore, they are suitable for anyone. Here are some of the best low-impact workouts if you want to add variety to your fitness routine.

If you’re looking to shake up your workout routine or give your body and joints a break from excessive pressure, you might want to consider low-impact workouts.

Though easier on the body than the high-impact alternatives, low-impact workouts are still great for helping you to build up strength and endurance; furthermore, they are suitable for anyone. Here are some of the best low-impact workouts if you want to add variety to your fitness routine.

Swimming

Swimming is a great full-body workout that builds strength and muscle all while having a low impact on the body. Water is 800 times denser than air - and, due to the resistance of the water, swimming burns more calories.

Everyday Health reports that, on average, swimming can burn as many calories in an hour as running six miles in the same length of time. Swimming is one of the best forms of cardiovascular exercise that slims and tones your whole body.

Water aerobics

If you prefer working out in a group, then water aerobics and other group aquatic exercises might be for you.  Water aerobics provides a great way for you to build friendships, while exercising in a group is a great motivator. The buoyancy of the water makes it low-impact, and you still receive the benefits of resistance while working out in the water.

Cycling

Cycling is a great aerobic exercise for losing weight, increasing stamina and building muscle - especially in the lower body. It’s a powerful low-impact workout that increases energy, helping you to be more productive throughout the day.

Mental wellbeing also improves with cycling, reducing stress and anxiety - so, not only will you look good, you’ll feel it as well. As it’s a method of transport, cycling can easily be introduced into your day - it's a matter of swapping four wheels for two.

Using a bike for transport is a win-win all around, providing health benefits as well as saving time and money.

Low-impact circuit training

Weightlifting is great for building strength and toning muscles but doesn’t burn a lot of calories. This is where circuit training comes in. The idea is to alternate between different strength training exercises without rest, letting you burn calories while you build strength. Still, how is it low-impact?

Circuits allow you to choose low-impact workouts only. Prestige Boot Camp classes include circuits that can be tailored to individual needs. Hence, you can enjoy typical benefits of circuit training while still leaving a low impact on your body.

Dancing

One of the best things about dancing is that there’s an option for everyone. From foxtrot to street to tap to jive, there are plenty of styles to choose from.

Dancing is a fun workout that demands a lot of energy because you’re moving in all directions. Regular dancing helps to lose weight, improve balance and coordination and reduce stress.

Yoga

Yoga is a great low-impact exercise that trains flexibility, mobility and strength through combining strengthening and stretching poses. It’s a full-body workout without added stress on your joints, making it a great option for pregnant women, suffers of chronic pain such as arthritis, or people recovering from muscle injury.