Why You Need Low Impact Workouts

We’re sold the bag of goods that super intense, heart pumping, and grueling workouts are the only ones that give us results. It’s no wonder why max out strength and HIIT  workouts have become the societal symbol of a “good workout”. Hey, we love them  too! But you’re missing a significant opportunity to actually see results, and feel good if you’re ignoring the beauty of low impact workouts. 

Slowing down has so many benefits (even if you resent it- yes go getter girlfriend, I’m lookin at you!)  When  we do 1-2 low impact workouts per week, it gives us all of the benefits of movement, while giving our body the break it deserves. The constant pounding from high intensity workouts actually does stress the body, and sometimes can create more harm than good if we don’t have the correct balance between low impact, high impact, and rest.

Instead of focusing on the calories burned through crazy hard workouts, let’s focus on longevity. How amazing would it be if you were able to do the things you love for a long time? THIS is why focusing on low impact workouts are so important.

So how can we incorporate low impact workouts into our lives?

• Modify high intensity workouts- take out the jumping to eliminate pounding

• Use heavy weights while strength training- this keeps your heart rate high without the impact

• Try movement like biking, walking, swimming, rowing, hiking, yoga, or pilates.

• Focus more on how your body feels- listen to how it’s craving to move

And remember:

• We can decrease the damage to our joints through low impact workouts

• When we listen to our bodies and take care of them, they will give us feedback

• The balance between high and low impact workouts is essential for results

• We must slow down to speed up

How can you listen to your body more and incorporate low impact workouts today?