If you’ve ever shied away from working out because it made your body ache, you’re not alone. Many people don’t realize that they’re pushing themselves too far when working out, but for some fitness junkies, stopping isn’t an option. If you’re new to working out, or you want to stay active but ease up on the stress to your joints and muscles, here are some of the best low-impact workouts that will still give you great results!
1. Yoga. While some don’t always consider yoga a low-impact workout, there are lots of yoga poses beginners or those looking for lower impact can do. Whether it’s a warrior pose, a sun salutation or even something to stretch your hips, yoga is a great overall workout that tones your muscles, increases your balance and even helps to make you more flexible. Even though it’s a low-impact workout for some, you should still trade in your diamond engagement band for a comfortable silicone ring. Yoga still makes you sweat, and you can avoid any buildup of dirt, grime or sweat on your diamond ring if you’re wearing a silicone one while you work out instead.
2. Walking. Walking is something most of us do every day — which is part of what makes it such a great low-impact workout! You can walk almost anywhere. Whether you walk in a gym, laps around your backyard, around the neighborhood, on the beach or even on a hiking trail, walking is a great workout that doesn’t have a huge impact on your joints but which will start to show immense gains in your exercise journey. These days, many smartwatches have exercise apps that allow you to track your steps, heart rate and number of calories you’ve burned, so you don’t even need a pedometer!
3. Swimming. Swimming is a great low-impact workout. The water helps to alleviate any of the pressure on your joints, while the water pressure itself makes your body work a bit harder — you just don’t realize it! Swimming is also a great workout for anyone who hates to feel themselves sweating. You can burn a lot of calories while swimming, and there are lots of water-resistant workout accessories you can find that will make swimming and other water-based workouts a breeze. To make your swim exercises a bit more interesting, change your stroke style with each lap. That will get your body moving and make you not feel bored as quickly!
4. Rock climbing. You might think rock climbing is a high-impact workout, but if you do it in a studio with professionals that spot you with a harness, it’s more low-impact than you think. Rock climbing in a studio allows you to take your time climbing, so you don’t feel rushed or pressured. Instead, you can take measured climbs and steps, pacing yourself so you don’t get overworked. Rock climbing in a studio is a great workout option for those who want to do something different but don’t want the risk or intensity of climbing in a more public and less regulated place like a national park.
5. Bowling. Bowling is a fun activity as much as it is an exercise. Bowling allows you to exercise your mind, too, since you have to plan out the way you throw the bowling ball in your mind, determine how many points you’ll need for each turn and attempt to visualize the pins knocking down the way you want them to.
Bowling is a great exercise you can do with friends — in fact, most people do it with a group or at least one other person. Many bowling alleys have themed nights or other activities available, too, such as billiards or darts, that you can enjoy between bowling matches. Overall, it’s a great low-impact exercise that everyone is sure to love! Make sure to consult a ring size chart so your jewelry fits properly and doesn’t get snagged on the bowling ball. It’s important you don’t lose anything special to you like your wedding ring!
6. Rowing. Rowing machines at the gym are a low-impact workout’s best friend. If you want to do something a little different for your workout, consider rowing! The rowing machine gives you the chance to exercise your core and arms without worrying about pressure on your joints, as traditional exercises do. Pushups and sit-ups can do a number on your joints, but a rowing machine can exercise similar muscles without the hassle or pressure on your joints.When done correctly, rowing can give you a lot of benefits that other exercises don’t. The next time you’re in the gym, consider using the rowing machine!
7. Pilates. Unlike aerobics, which involves a lot of movement to increase cardio, Pilates focuses on alignment and breathwork. This means less impact, but great results. The emphasis on your core can really make your workout better if you feel like you’ve been neglecting that area of your body to focus on other parts. When you find yourself in need of a workout that does more than just cardio or strength training, but which won’t cause issues with your joints, then Pilates is a great option!
8. Elliptical machine. When you can’t go out walking, an elliptical machine can save the day. It mimics walking or running, but your feet aren’t hitting the pavement or terrain. It’s a much better alternative to putting pressure on your joints. Instead, you can easily get an impressive workout in, without having to brave the elements or ruin your joins. Another benefit of an elliptical machine is that you can watch TV or read a book while you work out. It’s the perfect time to catch up on whatever you’ve been missing while you get a workout in.
There are lots of fun workouts out there you can do that don’t have to cause injury to your body. Avoid pressure on your joints by incorporating some low-impact exercises into your workouts. Whether you take a Pilates class, go bowling with friends or simply take a walk around the neighborhood, you can still have a full workout that doesn’t cause your body damage.
To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category
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