TRY THESE: Top Seven Low Impact Exercises

Let's talk about 'low-impact' exercises!

They are gentle on your joints and have a reduced risk of injury. Low-impact exercises serve many purposes and are excellent for overall health and wellness.  They're also particularly friendly for just about anyone (but please always consult your health care professional, of course) and are a great starting or restarting point.

Drum roll...  here are our top seven choices:

1. Walking-
Walking is a simple and effective low-impact exercise. It can be done almost anywhere and requires no special equipment. Start with a comfortable pace and gradually increase your speed and distance over time.  The benefits of walking are abundant!  

2. Cycling-
Whether outdoors on a trail or hopping on a stationary bike, cycling is a low-impact exercise that provides cardiovascular benefits without putting stress on your joints. It is particularly beneficial for strengthening the lower body muscles and improving overall fitness.

3. Swimming-
Swimming is a fantastic low-impact exercise that engages your entire body. The buoyancy of the water supports your joints while providing resistance for muscle strengthening. Feeling the freedom of the water will no doubt make your land activities easier, mind and body alike!

4. Weight Training-
This one may not seem as obvious, but using light or moderate weights have significant benefits to stability of your joints.  Low impact weight training can be done lying down, sitting, or standing.  It is incredibly versatile and you can adjust easily and quickly during work outs.  Weight lifting helps improve your stability, aids in prevention of injury, and offers amazing calorie burning!   

5. Yoga-
Yoga combines gentle movements, stretching, and deep breathing, making it an excellent mind-body low-impact exercise for improving flexibility, balance, and strength. It can be modified to suit various fitness levels and is beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.  Read our full blog article on ten scientific reasons to start yoga now!  

6. Pilates-
Pilates focuses on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. It uses controlled movements and emphasizes proper alignment, making it a low-impact exercise that is especially beneficial for improving posture and toning muscles.  Honestly, who doesn't want those things?  

7. Rowing-
This one may be least common overall, but reaps some seriously packed out benefits.  Rowing, either on a rowing machine or in a boat on water, provides a low-impact, full-body workout. It strengthens your upper body, core, and lower body muscles while minimizing stress on your joints.

So whether you're trying something new or kicking in your exercise vibes for the first time in a (long) while, these are good starters.  They are adaptable based on your specific needs and are low risk for maximum wellness benefits.

Consistency is your friend.  Move through life.