Introduction
When it comes to working out, everyone has different goals and abilities as to how much they can do and how fast they can do it. But regardless of your fitness level, low impact exercises are something that can benefit almost anyone! Low impact exercises are defined as exercises with minimal strain on the body and are typically slow paced. And the variety of benefits they offer can make them the perfect exercise choice to help you stay healthy!
Low impact exercises are exercises that are low force and often relatively slow-paced. These types of exercises are great for those who are just starting to exercise, pregnant women, or those who have existing injuries or illnesses. In other words, it doesn’t take a lot of exertion or strain to reap the benefits of low impact exercises.
Low impact exercises are a great way to get a good workout without putting too much strain on the body, and can provide a range of benefits. These workouts are known to be good for strengthening the heart and improving overall cardiovascular health. They can also help build muscle strength, improve flexibility and balance, and help with weight loss. Additionally, because these workouts tend to be low-intensity, they are much easier to stick to, which can lead to greater long-term results.
Types of Low Impact Exercises
A. Walking: Walking is one of the easiest and most accessible forms of low impact exercise. All you need is a comfy pair of shoes, a bit of dedication and you’re away. Not only is it great for your overall fitness, it’s also brilliant for mental health and just great for switching off and getting a bit of fresh air!
B. Cycling: Cycling is another great low impact exercise. Not only do you get all the same mental and physical benefits from walking, but you can also challenge yourself with hill rides and building up your stamina. And with a bike, you can get much further out of your local neighborhood and explore what nature has to offer.
C. Swimming: Swimming is an easy and enjoyable way to exercise with low impact on your joints and muscles. Laps, or just a gentle swim with gentle movements, it’s up to you! Swimming is not only great for your physical health and aerobic fitness, but it’s also great for stretching from using all the different lanes, and it’s really great for releasing tension.
D. Tai Chi: Tai Chi is a great form of low impact exercise. It’s gentle, but powerful and has been around for centuries. Tai Chi helps you to stay strong and punch higher as you move through the different stances and forms. Doing it regularly is also great for your emotional and mental health, as it improves your concentration and focus.
E. Yoga: Yoga is definitely one of the best forms of low impact exercise. It’s gentle, calming, and can bring your body and mind back in to balance. From beginner to advanced, there’s a wide variety of exercises to try, so you’ll never feel limited. It’s also great for toning up, increasing your range of motion, and just feeling a bit better about yourself.
Gear for Low Impact Exercises
A. Clothing
When it comes to low impact exercises, the type of clothing you choose can make a huge difference in how comfortable you are. Loose, breathable clothing that won’t restrict your movement can help you enjoy your time spent exercising, and look great too! Consider investing in some comfortable and lightweight shorts that hit at the knee or calf, or a pair of fitted or flowy leggings. A wicking moisture control sports bra, with adjustable straps and support, is also essential for any low impact workout. Top it off with a simple tank and you’ll be ready to go!
B. Shoes
The right shoes can be just as important as the right clothing when it comes to doing low impact exercises. Make sure to choose a pair that is designed specifically for low impact activities, as they will provide you with the most support and cushion to help take the pressure off your joints. Look for shoes that have thick cushioning and arched support, and make sure there’s plenty of wiggle room for your toes. With the perfect pair of low impact shoes, you’ll be able to take on any activity in comfort and style.
Incorporating Low Impact Exercises into Your Routine
A. Scheduling
Scheduling is key when trying to incorporate low impact exercises into your routine. You need to have a plan of when and how often you’ll be working out. Make sure you factor in time for rest and catch up on sleep. Everyone has different needs, so don’t feel obligated to keep to a strict schedule.
B. Choosing the Right Exercise
It’s important to choose the right exercise when it comes to low impact exercises. Exercises like swimming, yoga, tai chi, and walking are perfect for low impact exercises. You could try a combination of different exercises to mix things up, or stick to one or two exercises and become an expert.
C. Pacing Yourself
You don’t want to get too overzealous and push yourself too hard. Make sure to take breaks during your exercise routine, and don’t be afraid to rest when needed. Slow and steady wins the race, as they say.
D. Setting Goals
Goals are paramount when it comes to sticking to a low impact exercise routine. Setting short and long-term goals can keep you on track. Be specific and make sure to have a plan for how you’ll reach those goals. Write down your goals, and look back to them often to track your progress.
Motivating Yourself to Exercise
A. Finding a Workout Partner
Are you ready to start exercising but need a little extra help getting motivated? One of the best ways to stay motivated is to find a workout partner. Having someone to exercise with can help take the pressure off and push you to do your best. Having a workout partner gives you someone to talk to as you exercise and keeps you accountable. If you’re having an off day and don’t feel like exercising, having a friend to come along can push you to get up and go. Sometimes all we need is that extra boost of encouragement to stay on track and exercise.
B. Keeping a Journal
Keeping a fitness journal is a great way to stay motivated to exercise. It can be difficult to keep track of your progress, but a journal makes it easy. Write down how you’re feeling each day and log how much you exercise. This will give you a quick reminder of where you’re at and how far you’ve come. Being able to look back and admire your progress can give you the motivation to keep going.
C. Developing a Positive Mindset
It’s easy to forget how good it feels to exercise, but it can make a huge difference in your overall health. A positive mindset can help you stay motivated, even when times are tough. Try to focus on how good you’ll feel after a workout and the positive changes you’ll see. Remind yourself of your goals and the payoff that comes with hard work. Staying positive can be a powerful motivator, so check in with yourself each day and focus on the positives. Exercise is all about taking care of your body and mind, so make sure to find the motivation to keep on track.
Conclusion
Low impact exercises are a great way to keep our bodies healthy, strong, and fit. They offer a wide range of benefits including improved cardiovascular health, improved posture, and improved muscle tone. Additionally, these exercises are easier on the joints than high impact exercises, which makes them perfect for anyone seeking an effective and safe exercise plan.
For those wanting to incorporate low impact exercises into their routine, there are a variety of options available, including walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga. All of these activities offer a number of health benefits and can be tailored to fit your individual needs.
Ultimately, low impact exercises can be a great tool to help maintain your physical and mental wellbeing. And if you take the time to find exercises you enjoy, you’ll be setting yourself up for long term success. So why not make low impact exercises a part of your daily routine? It may be just what your body needs.