I live for HIIT workouts. Nothing beats the feeling after a solid sweat sesh where your heart is pounding out of your chest and your body feels beat. But you also hear of the many benefits surrounding low-impact workouts. 

In fact, low-impact exercises are currently trending. Why is that, you ask? Here are six reasons you may want to start swapping in some low-impact workouts to your weekly fitness routine.

What are low-impact workouts?

First of all, let’s clarify this once and for all. Low-impact exercises don’t mean easy. Most, if not all, movement is going to get your heart rate up. 

Low-impact just means that the exercises are easier on the joints and muscles. Some examples of low-impact exercises include biking (indoor or outdoor), ellipticating on an elliptical machine, (a word of my own creation), hiking, Pilates, spinning (like on a spin bike, not spinning in circles), swimming, and yoga.

Heck, even snowshoeing during the winter months could count as one of your low-impact workouts.

Why low-impact exercises are trending

1. Low-impact workouts put less stress on the body

Although I love high-impact activities like HIIT workouts and running, low-impact exercises put less stress on the body, especially the knees and low back. (Calling all chiropractors.)

Less stress is also placed on the joints. “Low-impact exercises are gentle on the joints, making them suitable for individuals with arthritis, joint pain, or previous injuries,” shares Josh Petrawski CEO of Sports & Fitness Exchange. “These workouts involve minimal pounding or jarring movements, reducing the risk of joint strain and impact-related injuries.” And speaking of injuries…

2. Low-impact exercises can help you avoid injury

It’s not surprising, but higher-intensity workouts increase your odds of injury. Hey, they’re super good workouts, and should always be done safely, but let’s be real — pounding the pavement on a long run outdoors on the asphalt and concrete is way more stressful on the body than a gentle yoga flow at your favorite studio.

Low-impact exercises and low-impact workouts allow you to put less stress on the body while still getting a good workout in. Plus, less stress on the joints and muscles means less inflammation in the body and less chance of injury.

3. A low-impact cardio workout is still a good workout

During low-impact exercises or low-impact workouts, your heart rate increases, and your muscles are still working hard, which means you’re expending energy and reaping cardiovascular benefits. “Activities such as brisk walking, swimming, or using elliptical machines can enhance overall cardiovascular fitness, improve heart health, and increase stamina,” says Petrawski.

It’s not just cardio that benefits from low-impact workouts. Low-impact exercises can still effectively strengthen and target various muscle groups. Petrawski shares that activities like Pilates, resistance training, or yoga can help build lean muscle, improve muscular endurance, and promote overall body strength.

Even though you may be like me and love that addicting feeling after a solid sweat sesh at the gym, low-impact exercises and low-impact workouts can leave you feeling way less sore leaving the gym. Less fatigue, pain, and soreness means you can come back and attack your beloved high-intensity workouts with, well, more intensity.

4. Low-impact workouts can help improve flexibility

Many low-impact workouts focus on balance, flexibility, and stretching. Low-impact exercises such as Pilates and yoga can enhance joint mobility, improve balance and coordination, and increase flexibility, ultimately helping you move more efficiently inside or outside the gym.

5. Reduced stress and improved mental well-being

Engaging in low-impact exercises often improves mental well-being, promotes relaxation, and reduces stress levels, shares Petrawsk. Activities like gentle stretching, Tai Chi, and yoga can enhance mindfulness, promote mental clarity, and reduce anxiety.

Plus, many low-impact workouts, such as Pilates and yoga, emphasize the mind-body connection, promoting mindfulness, relaxation, and stress reduction. These exercises focus on proper form, breathing techniques, and controlled movements, enhancing body awareness and overall well-being.

6. Sustainable fitness and long-term consistency

Another reason low-impact exercises are trending is that low-impact workouts offer a sustainable approach to fitness. “They are often more accessible, enjoyable, and easier to incorporate into a long-term fitness routine,” notes Petrawski. 

Low-impact exercises are generally more accessible to a wider range of age groups and fitness levels. They can be modified to accommodate different abilities and fitness levels, allowing individuals to engage in physical activity without feeling overwhelmed or discouraged.

“This increases the likelihood of maintaining regular exercise habits while reaping the benefits of physical activity over time,” says Petrawski. “They also prioritize long-term consistency and allow individuals to engage in regular exercise without the risk of burnout or overtraining.”

Plus, many low-impact exercises are versatile. “Low-impact exercises encompass a wide range of activities that cater to diverse fitness preferences,” shares Petrawski. “This versatility allows individuals to find an exercise that aligns with their interests, making it more enjoyable and easier to stick to a regular fitness routine.”

Tips for adding low-impact workouts to your routine

It’s important to note that while low-impact exercises offer numerous benefits, they may not provide the same cardiovascular intensity as high-impact activities, says Petrawski. 

“It is advisable to combine low-impact exercises with other forms of physical activity to achieve a well-rounded fitness routine that includes cardiovascular conditioning, flexibility work, and strength training,” he says. “Consulting with a healthcare professional or certified fitness trainer can help tailor an exercise program that suits individual goals and needs.”

Also, the specific benefits of low-impact workouts can vary depending on the duration, individual factors, and type of exercise, notes Petrawski. “It is essential to choose activities that align with your fitness goals, physical capabilities, and preferences,” he says.

Finally, it’s key to listen to your body and choose activities that you enjoy. Making low-impact exercises a regular part of your fitness routine can provide numerous benefits for your overall health and well-being, says Petrawski.

The bottom line on low-impact exercises

Low-impact exercises and low-impact workouts are totally trending right now — and for good reasons. Less stress on the body, joints, and muscles are earmarks of low-impact workouts as well as other things like fewer injuries and more flexibility. If you’re looking for ways to mix up your weekly workouts, give low-impact exercises and low-impact workouts a try. Your body, joints, and muscles will thank you.