Try These Low-Impact Exercises
Want to start or get back into a fitness routine, but not sure where to start?
Low-impact exercise can be your best friend on this journey!
In this blog, we’ll explore why low-impact exercise is crucial and we’ll guide you through two effective low-impact exercises to build strength, improve cardiovascular fitness, and regain confidence without putting excessive stress on your joints.
The Importance of Low-Impact Exercise
Low-impact exercises are a powerful way to move your body while being kind to your joints.
Whether you’re easing back into fitness after some time off, recovering from an injury, or just looking for a workout routine that’s gentler on your body, low-impact exercises offer a safe and effective solution.
Let’s explore why these exercises are so valuable for your health and fitness:
- Reduced Risk of Injury: Low-impact exercises minimize the risk of strains, sprains, and joint injuries, making them suitable for individuals of all fitness levels.
- Joint Health: By avoiding high-impact movements, you protect your knees, hips, and ankles from excessive wear and tear, preserving long-term joint health.
- Sustainable Progress: Low-impact exercises allow for gradual progression, helping you build endurance and strength while reducing the chances of overexertion.
- Inclusivity: These exercises can be adapted to various fitness levels, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including seniors and those with mobility challenges.
Now, let’s dive into two effective low-impact exercises you can incorporate into your fitness routine:
Forward Lunges
Forward lunges are a great way to engage your lower body and improve balance without stressing your joints. Here’s how to do them safely:
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart, keeping your posture straight and shoulders relaxed.
- Take a step forward with your right foot, lowering your body into a lunge position while lifting your arms overhead. Make sure your knee doesn’t extend past your toe while lunging.
- Keep your left foot behind you with the heel lifted. Your back knee should hover just above the ground.
- Press through your right heel to return to the starting position.
- Repeat the movement with your left foot.
Perform 10 lunges on each leg.
Cross Punches
Cross punches are a low-impact way to boost your heart rate, strengthen your core, and improve coordination. Here’s how to get started:
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
- Hold your fists in front of you, with your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Begin by twisting your torso to the right while extending your right arm forward, as if you’re punching across your body.
- Return to the center and repeat the motion on the left side.
- Continue alternating between right and left punches so that you do 10 on each side. Focus on engaging your core and maintaining proper form throughout the exercise.
Why Low-Impact Matters
Low-impact exercises aren’t just a fallback option — they’re a proactive way to strengthen your body, protect your joints, and create a routine you can stick with long-term. They’re gentle but effective, helping you build momentum toward your health and fitness goals without unnecessary strain or setbacks.
By adding movements like forward lunges and cross punches to your routine, you’re giving yourself the gift of sustainable, safe progress.
Remember, fitness is a journey, not a sprint. Starting with low-impact options can set you up for success by prioritizing safety, consistency, and steady improvement.
Want to feel and move your best?
Treatment is covered by insurance, no referral is needed to start, and with flexible virtual and in-clinic appointments available, you can find a time that works with your schedule.
Click the button below to get started.