Tired of feeling beat up after every CrossFit class or tabata routine?
You might want to try a little low-impact instead.
But fitness experts andresearchersagree: you need not pound so hard to score major wellness benefits.
Photo:Getty Images / Shape
These workouts can involve cardiovascular, muscular training, or both.
Jump roping, box jumps, sprints, and burpees are all examples of traditional HIIT MVPs.
(Seated activities are also low-impact.)
Both allow you to push hard and accomplish HIIT-style training without impacting your joints.
It’s important to make the distinction between low-impact activities and lower-intensity activities when compared to HIIT.
Same results with less stress?
(This is just one example of many conditions that can be exacerbated by high-impact exercise.)
“Low-impact workouts are less likely to cause overuse injuries or burnout,” says Parolini.
My neck and knees always bothered me, and I thought that was par for the course."
That is until she was introduced to the rowing machine.
Themind-muscle connectionis vital to help you get the most from your workouts physically.
Low-impact exercises are ideal for many individuals because between-session recovery may be shorter.
(Find more on this below in “How to Make the Switch”).
My cortisol levels dropped and I felt improvements in my overall body composition.
I also was able to stay consistent because I wasn’t working at 100 percent all the time.
“Low-impact workouts are accessible to people of all fitness levels because they offer a gradual and manageable approach.
Imagine starting with a slow and steady walk on the treadmill.
After three months of consistent training, perhaps you’re ready to add some incline.
If you’re really feeling ambitious and love a road trip, you could fuel up and drive.
There’s no universal “right” answer; it varies based on your goals.
For others, MICT is the best option, advises Gagliardi.
A combo of HIIT and MICT may be the best option, perhaps with some LIIS sprinkled in.
“Too much HIIT and you might get burnt out or overworking your body leading to injuries.
Plus they’re very time-efficient if your schedule is jam-packed.
“That couldn’t be further from the truth.
Low-impact, HIIT workouts offer an environment for continued growth and complete fitness,” says Parolini.
They’re also excellent for building community (since you may actually sometimes have the capacity to chat!)
and might be more enjoyable for some populations.
“Everyone can benefit from incorporating lower-impact movement into their training,” confirms Parolini.
The growing interest in lower-impact options among HIIT lovers signifies that we’re thinking long-term.
