If your exercise routine suffered during the winter months, it's time to get back into it. The outdoors will soon be calling your name. Will you answer the call?
Yes! Of course you will because that is what you live for. But wait. What about those pesky muscles and joints that are giving you some trouble? Not to worry, just throw on your CopperJoint compression sleeve and get ready for some good low-impact exercises to get you back in shape.
Top 10 Low Impact Exercises
Walking
Sounds simple enough, but purposefully walking is a great low impact exercise you can do anytime, anywhere. You also can adjust how long you walk depending on your needs. Most doctors would recommend at least 30 minutes a day of brisk walking, but be sure to go at your own pace if you are injured.
Stairs
Take walking to another level and add some stairs. Experts say 15 minutes of stairs equal 30 minutes of walking, plus it will give you more definition in your legs, buttocks, and stomach.
Cycling
Burning an average of 650 calories per hour, cycling is a great low impact exercise and a great way to get around. While street riding will tone your legs, advanced riders can also get a great upper body and ab workout on tougher trails and mountains.
Swimming
The ultimate low impact exercise, swimming is a good workout for anyone. You burn a decent amount of calories (100 per hour) and you sculpt into a lean machine. Add some aerobic exercises and weights and you can triple the benefits.
Yoga
For a peaceful, relaxing exercise give yoga a try. Great to use in between days where you've pushed it a little harder, yoga will help you center and regain homeostasis while increasing strength, balance, and flexibility. The stretching is great for your painful areas, but be careful to stick to a level of stretch you are comfortable with.
Pilates
Not only a good low impact workout, but the perfect exercises to improve your posture, balance, and strength. You can push your body to its limit with pilates in ways you can't do otherwise. Additionally, pilates will keep you limber and relieve pressure-causing pain from your muscles and joints.
Hiking
There's nothing like being close to nature as you get back into your exercise routines. Hiking can be a great way to disconnect from the world while you focus on renewing your fitness goals. Easy to moderate hikes are low impact but make for good workouts.
Rock Climbing
Let the adrenaline you've been missing take you to new heights. Beginner-level rock climbing is a low impact exercise that pushes your limits, but is easy on the joints. Rock climbing is becoming more accessible than ever before, making it a popular sport.
TRX
If you want a tough workout that's not going to damage your muscles or joints, you need to try TRX. TRX is a suspension workout and can be performed almost anywhere as it's transportable and easy to set up. The wide range of possibilities of good workouts make TRX a great low impact exercise. You can learn more about this exercise by clicking here.
Move More, Hurt Less
Restarting your fitness journey is easier when your joints are supported. Our copper-infused compression gear helps reduce muscle vibration and stiffness, so you can focus on your goals instead of your aches.
No More Excuses
You don't have to settle. You can continue your exercise routine without further injuring yourself. With CopperJoint and these 10 low impact exercises, you can stay on top of your game. Stock up today on your favorite CopperJoint products and we will see you out there!
Common Questions About Low-Impact Fitness
Is low-impact exercise as effective for weight loss?
Absolutely. While high-impact exercises like running burn calories quickly, low-impact activities like cycling or brisk walking can be performed for longer durations, leading to significant calorie burn without the risk of joint exhaustion or injury.
Should I wear compression sleeves during low-impact workouts?
Yes. Even in low-impact activities like walking or yoga, compression sleeves help by improving circulation and providing joint stability. This is especially helpful if you are returning to exercise after a long period of inactivity.
What is the best low-impact exercise for bad knees?
Swimming and cycling are generally considered the gold standard for "bad knees." Both activities allow you to improve cardiovascular health and leg strength without the repetitive jarring impact of hitting the pavement.
How often should I do low-impact exercises?
Because these exercises are gentler on the body, many people can safely perform them 5 to 6 days a week. However, always listen to your body and allow for at least one full day of rest to let your muscles recover.