Low-impact exercises raise your heart rate and burn calories without jarring your joints. Unlike jogging and sprinting, low-impact exercises are less intense and offer a more relaxing way to work out. Stuck on where to start? Here’s our lowdown of low-impact exercises that will help you torch calories and get fit!

Swimming

Swimming is the number one low-impact exercise. As an activity that works the entire body, you can burn around 700 calories an hour. If you haven’t been swimming in ages, your first session won’t be easy. In fact, you’ll probably have few aches the next morning. Once you get into regular swimming, your fitness will improve and you may even notice a couple of pounds dropped!

Walking

Walking – the easiest exercise of all. It doesn’t cost you a penny and you can do it anytime, anywhere. You could start with easy, short walks and then increase the distance each week. Try changing speeds and walking through the woods and up hills for added resistance.

Cycling

Get your bike out for a ride! Cycling is a joint-friendly exercise and you can burn tons of calories. If you’re starting out or haven’t cycled in a while, move at a pace that feels comfortable to you. Cycling is one of the best exercises you can do for your cardiovascular fitness.

Rowing

When it comes to rowing you have two choices: join a team or use a rowing machine at the gym. For most people, option two is the most convenient. In any case, rowing is a total-body workout that tones your core, legs, arms and improves your posture. Remember, you need to lean forward with your arms extended at the end of every move. Good technique is key!

Zumba

If you’re looking for a low-impact dance routine, Zumba is your friend. This fun dance workout burns calories and improves your fitness, and you may not notice how hard you’re actually working. If you’re nervous about joining a class, why not ask a friend? Just like any exercise, you need to be consistent with your workout to see weight loss results.

There’s no shortage of low-impact exercises! Without question, they are extremely effective when it comes to burning calories. And just like high-impact exercises, you can still push yourself and increase the intensity of your workouts. You’ll be able to avoid pain and strain, and still reap the benefits.

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