Do you prefer the rush of a high-intensity workout or the slow burn of a lower-impact one?
If you love the rush of a high-impact, high-intensity workout every day, we get it! Those types of exercises get your heart pumping and boost endorphins. But it might be worth incorporating a couple of lower-impact days into your routine. The benefits will be felt in your body and your mind.
Low-impact exercises are movements that avoid heavy jarring, slamming, or jumping, resulting in little to no impact on your joints. Working out in this gentle manner can still result in a great workout with many of the same benefits as a high-intensity workout.
Low-impact exercises, like pilates, yoga, barre, rowing, cycling and strength training, are accessible and healthy for people of all ages. Engaging in these activities throughout your life is a great way to ensure you can continue being active as you age.
Another benefit is that many low-impact exercises are apartment-friendly! If you can’t get to the gym, rolling out a mat and doing a pilates or light strength routine at home is a great way to move your body without bothering your downstairs neighbors.
A low-impact workout doesn’t have to mean giving up cardio. Many options, such as cycling and elliptical exercise, offer the same health benefits as higher-intensity activities. Low-impact cardio is efficient for burning fat, strengthening the heart, and increasing metabolism. It also reduces the chance of injury by being gentler on the joints and helps improve balance and stability.
Whether you’re taking a class in one of MINT’s fitness studios or rolling out your mat at home, we encourage you to be gentle with your body and pursue movements that feel good for you!