Walking is one of the most effective low-impact exercises to do. However, not everyone finds walking an accessible or comfortable option. Some individuals may face challenges in adopting a regular walking routine, due to joint pain, injuries, or other limitations.
“Joint issues, such as arthritis or previous injuries, can make the repetitive impact of walking painful,” said Dominique Evans, a dance coach and personal trainer. “Some may struggle with balance or find it challenging to sustain long periods of walking. Low-impact exercises offer a solution by minimizing joint stress, while promoting cardiovascular health and overall well-being.”
Walking can pose difficulties for many individuals. These good news is that there are alternative low-impact exercises that can provide similar health benefits without the strain. Evans suggested different low-impact exercises people can try instead of walking.
Alternative Low-Impact Exercises
One of the reasons low-impact exercises are crucial is their ability to cater to a diverse demographic. Conditions, like osteoarthritis, can make walking a less viable option. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, provide an alternative that reduces strain on these joints. It allows individuals to engage in regular physical activity without exacerbating their discomfort.
“One of the best low-impact exercises I recommend is Frankenstein Kicks,” she suggested. “You would do these by standing with legs together and extending one arm. Step forward, kicking the opposite leg straight up, aiming to touch your toe with your hand. Skip forward as you return, and repeat, alternating sides.”
Low-impact exercises are suitable for individuals recovering from injuries. When walking might be too strenuous during the healing process, exercises, like water aerobics, offer a gentler approach to maintaining fitness.
“If a client suffers from joint issues or injuries, another great exercise is flutter kicks while lying on their back or the elliptical machine,” Evans shared.
She also recommended investing in a portable stepper if you have issues with your joints and don’t have access to a gym. This adaptability makes exercises valuable for those at different stages of their fitness journey, ensuring everyone can find a suitable option regardless of their physical condition.
Diversification of Workout Regimes
In addition to accommodating specific health concerns, low-impact exercises contribute to overall longevity in fitness routines. By diversifying workout regimens, individuals can reduce the risk of burnout and boredom, making it more likely for them to stick to their exercise goals in the long run.
“Walking is effective, but clients get bored easily if we keep doing the same thing, … so I try to find fun low-impact exercises for them,” Evans explained. “For instance, kickboxing or dance classes are great fun activities compared to walking or evening running.”