Whether you’re just coming off of an injury or are looking to get moving again without pounding too hard on your joints, these are the best low impact workouts to try:
Swimming or Water Aerobics
Swimming is synonymous with low impact exercise. By moving against the water’s resistance, it is highly effective at building back up your strength. If swimming laps isn’t your jam, a water aerobics class can help you work on your flexibility and cardiovascular health.
Yoga
Everybody can stand to benefit from stretching their body. Not only is yoga a beginner friendly low impact workout, but it helps increase your muscle’s flexibility; protecting you from injury. You can attend a class or try it in the comfort of your own home!
Walking & Hiking
Walking is perhaps the most stress free way to exercise. It gives you the opportunity to be out in nature (a natural mood booster) and allows you to go at your own pace. It’s also easy to do with a buddy! If you’re looking to upgrade the intensity level, consider going for an elevated hike by incorporating some hills.
Strength Training
Also known as resistance training, strength training improves your balance and strengthens your bones and muscles by utilizing free weights and your own body as a tool. This is a great way to get a high-intensity workout in without putting too much stress on your joints.
The Stair Climber
While that elliptical at the gym is also a low impact workout, the stair climber will get you more bang for your buck. In fact, stair climbing burns more calories per minute than jogging does. As it is a weight bearing exercise, stair climbers are known to increase your bone density and help put off osteoporosis. They’re also easy on your knees because you’re technically attached to the machine and not making contact with the ground.
Cycling
Riding a bike is a great low impact exercise for those of all ages. Whether you’re riding indoors or out, you are in full control of the intensity level and can build up your endurance by working through the gears or climbing a hill.
Rowing
If you’re into water sports, rowing can be a great alternative during the colder months. Rowing works both your upper and lower body, and is also a great form of cardio. The motion of rowing comes naturally and because it’s a stationary machine, eliminates any stress on your joints.
If you are experiencing joint pain, contact Dr. Stacie Grossfeld and the Orthopaedic Specialists of Louisville, Kentucky at 502-212-2663.
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