Summer is the time when the workout and healthy living is slightly neglected. Those sunny days pass quickly and there are so many more exciting things to do and places to go. There’s simply not enough time for everything. We are more focused on travel, seaside and fun nights out. Now that the summer is over, it’s time to get back in shape, especially if you plan to show off that beach body next summer. There’s no better way to kickstart your exercise regime this Autumn than to start with some low-impact workouts. You can do such routines everywhere – at the gym, at home or outside. Given the current pandemic situation, this is a perfect way to have a DIY training and keep fit even you need to be isolated. It is also a fantastic way to put your mind back into the workout mode after a break.
What does low-impact mean?
Low-impact workouts are designed in a way that alleviates stress on your joints while simultaneously burning calories. It is both safe and effective, which makes this type of exercise routine appropriate for beginners, convalescents and people who are restricted in any way. This exercise type will elevate your heart rate like any other cardio workout but without the accompanying pressure on the joints.
The benefits of low-impact workouts
In addition to being gentler to your knees and ankles, low-impact workouts are very beneficial to your cardiovascular and muscular systems. Cardiovascular fitness is vital for your overall health and can protect you from various illnesses. Moreover, you will notice your mood is better due to the increased production of endorphins. This effect is known as the “runner’s high.” However, contrary to running, you will not put your joints to the test with low-impact workouts. If you are an avid gym-goer, low-impact activities will also help you stay active even on rest days. Finally, you will be able to build strength and muscles sustainably over time.
Low-impact workouts you should try
There are various options for low-impact cardio training. You can modify ven the more demanding exercises, so they don’t strain your body too much. Here are some fantastic workouts that will improve your cardio fitness by increasing your heart rate and burn a lot of calories:
1. Walking
The main advantage of walking is that you can do it anywhere you want and everywhere you want. It is both a low-impact and low-intensity workout, which you can modify demanding on your fitness level. You can increase the pace as you progress and opt for more hilly terrains to make it more challenging. Walking is also a great social activity, so when you have reached the appropriate fitness level, you can spend some quality time hiking with your family or friends. So if you are pressed for time, you can kill two birds with one stone and see your friends while working out at the same time.
2. Swimming
Swimming is an amazing physical activity that will improve your cardio fitness, strength and flexibility. It is a full-body workout that doesn’t strain your body due to the help of the water. Water can also have a therapeutic effect, especially if you are lucky enough to live near the sea or the river. But since Autumn is here, a local swimming pool will do.
3. Yoga and Pilates
Yoga and Pilates are two more types of low-impact training that will make you sweat and elevate your heart rate, although they are anaerobic. They are very different, but what they have in common is the absence of jumping and pressure. You will, however, have to learn the proper form to avoid injury. If you are looking for some help, Dubai Personal Trainers can assist you on your fitness journey and teach you how to exercise safely and achieve your goals. As you progress, you can adjust the difficulty of the exercises to fit your fitness level. Both Yoga and Pilates are an excellent choice if you want to sculpt your body to perfection and get healthy.
4. Cycling
Cycling will increase your heart rate with virtually no stress on your joints. Similarly to walking, you can modify the difficulty by increasing pace and choosing more challenging routes. You can progress to mountain biking if you have a more adventurous spirit. Moreover, you can easily incorporate this activity into your daily routine by cycling to work or even doing minor shopping. You can also do this on the stationary bike at home or the gym on colder days.
5. TRX suspension training
A fun fact about TRX is that a Navy Seal designed it. It uses straps, which can provide support if necessary, and your body weight. TRX is incredibly versatile, so you can build strength and cardio fitness by doing dozens of different exercises. There is a bonus to it – you will hardly get bored. You can tailor the difficulty and complexity of exercises to suit your current fitness level. The correct technique is imperative, though, so ask your trainer for help. The only downside is that you can only use TRX at the gym.
6. Zumba
Zumba is an incredible way to tone and sculpt your body while having loads of fun. It is a combination of dance and fitness inspired by Latin music. It covers your entire body – arms, legs, core, so it’s not surprising that positive effects will be noticeable very quickly, both in your fitness levels and overall mood. Zumba is an exhilarating, invigorating and effective fitness system. It doesn’t get much better than that.
Low-impact workouts will enable you to reap the benefits of exercising but without any risk to your joints. There are various options for your fitness level and preferences. Whether you are an indoorsy or outdoorsy person, there is something for you. If you find it hard to motivate yourself to work out at home, the gym also offers some low-impact solutions. Finally, you can do most of these workouts either in solitude or with the company of others. All you need to do is make up your mind and start. Everything else will come naturally.