What Are the Best Low-Impact Exercises?
There are many reasons one might want low-impact exercises rather than workouts that require jumping or placing extra weight on the joints. Injury, arthritis, pregnancy, obesity, or even just a simple preference for gentler exercise are all reasons that one might choose a low-impact workout. Just because exercises are low in impact, however, does not mean they are easy, or that they will not have benefits for the whole body. There are many excellent low-impact exercises to choose from. Some aerobic low-impact exercises include bicycling, swimming, or even walking. Jogging, dancing, or aerobics that require jumping should be avoided, but step aerobics can often get the heart rate up and help to burn fat without putting undue stress on the joints. Some machines at the gym are great choices for low-impact workouts, particularly the elliptical, rowing machine, and stationary bicycle. Aqua aerobics, which take place in the pool, are one of the best types of low-impact exercises because they