Monday 17 April 2017

Low-Impact Exercise and its Health Benefits Explained

Definition of Low-Impact Exercise

Low-impact exercise is defined as any form of gentle activity/exercise that does not put your joints under stress, helping to avoid impact-type injuries like sprains or tears to joints/cartilages that are typically associated with higher-impact activities.


Examples of Low-Impact Exercises

Types of low-impact exercises or activities include walking, cycling, swimming, yoga, pilates, and playing bowls.  Even activities such as light housework or gardening are examples of low-impact activities which help to keep you fit and burn calories in a natural way.

As far as exercise machines for your home gym are concerned, exercise bikes, elliptical trainers and rowing machines all offer a very effective way of working out in a low impact way.  With these examples, the machine supports your body weight and there is no impact to your joints as there would be with a treadmill for instance.


Who are Low-Impact Exercises Aimed At?

Anybody can benefit from low-impact exercises but they are particular beneficial to people who are new to exercise or people who are recovering from a health issue or old injury who have been advised to exercise in a low key way.


Health Benefits of Low-Impact Exercise

Moderate low-impact exercise/activity offers a wealth of health benefits, including toning, strengthening muscles and bones, burning calories, reducing body fat, losing weight and generally improving your overall sense of well-being.

Exercise in general can help flush out toxins from your body and is thought to help lower your risk of a range of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.

Exercise is also well known to be a natural mood booster and can help to reduce stress and tension.

Additional benefits of exercise include increasing blood circulation, increasing the flow of oxygen around the body, and increasing lung capacity.

As the saying goes, it's wise to keep active to keep healthy!


N.B.  It's advisable to consult your doctor or health care professional before undertaking any new exercise regime.


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