While it’s important to maintain physical fitness, working out isn’t a contest. You don’t have to run a marathon to keep your heart in good shape, and you don’t have to be an acrobat to stay flexible. These 5 easy tips for low-impact exercise will keep your body moving without leaving you exhausted at the end.
A Brisk Walk
Wake up early in the morning, head outside, and walk around the block. Don’t feel any pressure to run or even jog. Keep your pace slightly quicker than a stroll, and move your arms, too—think of the people you see doing their workout walks at the mall. Getting your arms involved will gently raise your heart rate.
Ellipticals
Instead of the classic treadmill, try an elliptical machine. It mimics the movement of running without the extra impact on your joints. Low-impact doesn’t necessarily mean low-intensity; it just means you’re avoiding that extra joint stress.
Step Aerobics
An aerobics class or video is a fun way to get on your feet and move, but some lessons may be too strenuous and high impact. Get a set of steps instead and enjoy the choreography without jumping around too much. Again, move your arms while you do your steps. Even if it feels a little silly, embrace that silliness—working out should be fun!
Dance
Take a ballet class; many studios offer beginner classes for adults. A simple barre routine stretches multiple muscle groups and requires you to focus on your breathing as well. Beginner-level choreography avoids excess leaps and twirls while building strength, especially in your core muscles.
Stretch and Recover
Low-impact exercise can still leave you sweaty and tired. Cool down after your workout with a few simple stretches. If your muscles are sore, try a little hot tub therapy to increase blood flow and help your body recover. Keep doing a gentle stretch or two while you’re soaking; let the hot water help you relax into that stretch. Don’t forget to take days off in between workouts, too!
Anyone can benefit from low-impact exercise—even athletes and people who do strenuous workouts. Keeping your heart rate up and being easy on your joints aren’t mutually exclusive. Try these 5 easy tips for low-impact exercise to improve your health while being gentle to your body.
