As we age, our bodies become less durable. But you’ll need to keep exercising if you want to stay healthy and just feel good about yourself. If you’re prone to injuries, dealing with one now, or are just searching for joint-friendly exercises, here are some suggesions that will help you stay safe while still working up a sweat.
Swimming
Swimming is the ultimate no-impact exercise. When you’re in the water, you’re weightless, which makes this a perfect activity for anyone dealing with an injury. You can make your swims as easy or hard as you’d like. Plus, it’s a great way to cool off during the hot summer months. Depending on how hard you’re working, you’ll burn about 333 calories in 45 minutes. If you’re looking to add swimming to your routine, consider finding a gym with a pool, such as 24 Hour Fitness.
Rowing Machines
If you’re searching for a way to mix up your routine, rowing machines are a great way to tone your upper body and legs. It’s also an excellent cardio workout. As with most workouts, you’ll get as much out of it as you put in. But fast or slow, you’ll be getting in a great workout. Plus, rowing machines are almost always available at the gym.
Cycling
Biking is one of the best low-impact exercises out there. Whether you do your cycling on the road or in a spin class, you can get your heart rate up, work up a great sweat, strengthen your muscles, and lose weight. Cyclng is also a great way to launch a fitness program. It doesn’t require much skill to get on a stationary bike and start pedaling. If you live close enough to your office, you also could bike there as a way to get in some exercise before and after the work day. Cycling may also have mental benefits, too. Biking may help you relax and improve your memory, according to Psychology Today.
Elliptical Trainer
The elliptical machine is one of the best ways to mimic running without the added joint stress. Grab the handles if you want to add in some upper-body work, or swing your arms naturaly if you want to just focus on your legs. Either way, you’re getting in a great cardio workout. This is an ideal workout for former runners or those who want to vary their running routine without adding another high-impact activity into their schedule.
Yoga
Yoga is a great way to stretch and strengthen your muscles. It also can help you improve your performance in other sports, improve your balance and coordination, and protect you from injury, according to the American Osteopathic Association. Most classes include breathing exercises and a series of poses that are designed to help you relax and tone your muscles. Yoga sessions typically end with a relaxing cool down period called “savasana” that many practitioners enjoy.
