Sometimes the body cannot handle intense workouts. When you want to strengthen your body and keep it healthy and are looking for less intense workouts, there are low impact exercises to try!
Benefits of Low Impact Exercises
- Increased cardiovascular health
- Decreased risk of joint damage or injury
- Sustained weight loss
- Lowered cholesterol
Leg Stand
Stand next to a wall or something sturdy that you can use for support. Keep your legs hip-distance apart. Slowly lift one foot off the ground while keeping your standing leg slightly bent. Engage your abdominals to help with balance. Hold the pose for up to 30 seconds. Repeat with the other leg.
Steps
You don’t need a gym for this one! Go to any stairs in your home. Step on the first stair with your right leg. Lift your left leg off the floor, but do not place it on the next step. Hold the position for one count with just your right leg on the stair. After, step down with your left leg followed by the right. Repeat on the other side. Do 10 to 15 lifts on each leg.
Walking
Walking is the easiest low-impact workout you can do every day. If you can take a walk, especially outside, three to five times a week, your body and mind will thank you! It releases positive endorphins, helps get oxygen to your body and can keep your body toned.
Squats
Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lower your upper body as if you were about to sit down in a chair. Make sure that your knees do not travel past your toes when you look down. When your thighs and buttocks are parallel to the floor, lift back up and repeat.
Low Plank
Lie face down on the floor, with your feet shoulder-width apart. Then raise your chest as you place your elbows under your shoulders. Then, make a fist with each hand and make sure your forearms are parallel. Lift your body up so that you are supporting your weight on your forearms and your toes; keep your legs, hips and spine aligned. Hold for thirty seconds and repeat two more times.
Remember to never do an exercise if it causes pain or discomfort. Always consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. These low impact exercises have low risk and major benefits when done throughout the week. Try them today!