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Are you looking for a way to get a good cardio workout without pounding your joints? If so, high intensity low, impact cardio might be the perfect solution. This exercise is excellent for people who are just starting or those with joint pain.
However, you can still get a great workout while avoiding any unnecessary stress on your body. Check out these tips and benefits for getting the most out of your high-intensity, low-impact cardio routine.
What is High Intensity Low Impact Cardio?
High intensity low, impact cardio is a type of exercise that combines high-intensity interval training with low-impact movements. An effective workout burns calories and improves cardiovascular health without unnecessary joint stress.
Top 5 Benefits Of High Intensity Low Impact Cardio
There are many benefits to incorporating high intensity low, impact cardio into your workout routine.
1. It’s an effective way to burn calories
This is it if you are looking for a way to burn calories. High intensity low impact cardio is a highly effective way to torch calories.
More promising is that you will continue to burn calories after your workout. This is due to the “afterburn effect”, which causes your body to continue burning calories for hours after you finish exercising.
2. It is low-impact, so it is easier on the joints than other types of cardio
This is it if you are looking for a way to get a good cardio workout without pounding your joints. High intensity low, impact cardio is much easier on the joints than other types of cardio such as running or jump roping.
Many people shy away from cardio because they worry about its impact on their joints. However, high intensity, low impact cardio is an excellent option for those who want to avoid joint pain.
3. It improves cardiovascular health
In addition to burning calories and being easy on the joints, high intensity low, impact cardio also has some great benefits for your heart.
This cardio helps improve cardiovascular health by increasing the amount of blood pumped through the heart with each beat. This, in turn, helps to reduce the risk of heart disease.
One key thing to remember with high intensity low, impact cardio is that it is important to warm up properly before starting your workout. This will help avoid any injuries and help you get the most out of your workout.
4. It is versatile
Another great thing about high intensity low impact cardio is its versatility. There are many different ways to do this cardio, so you can find an exercise routine that fits your needs and preferences.
Some popular options include swimming, biking, elliptical training, rowing, and even walking. The bottom line is that everyone has a high intensity low, impact cardio workout.
5. It can be a fun and challenging workout
If you are looking for a fun and challenging workout, then high intensity, low impact cardio provides a great way to get in shape while also providing a challenge.
This type of cardio can be done solo, or with a group, so it is an excellent option for those who want to work out with friends or family. It is also a great way to add variety to your workout routine.
How To Do High Intensity Low Impact Cardio
There are many ways to do high-intensity low impact cardio. You can use any combination of low-impact movements and high-intensity interval training to create an effective workout. Here are some examples:
Treadmill
Start with a warm-up walk or jog at a moderate pace. Then, increase the incline and speed in intervals, walking or jogging for one minute at a time. Be sure to cool down with a five-minute walk or jog at the end of your workout.
Elliptical Machine
HIIT Elliptical workouts are a great way to do some high-intensity workouts while protecting your joints.
Warm up with a few minutes of easy pedaling. Then, increase the resistance and pedal at a faster pace for one minute. Repeat this interval for the duration of your workout. Finally, cool down with a few minutes of easy pedaling at the end.
Stationary Bike
Start with a warm-up ride at a moderate pace. Then, increase the resistance and pedal at a faster pace for one minute. Repeat this interval for the duration of your workout. Finally, cool down with a few minutes of easy pedaling at the end.
Rowing Machine
Start with a warm-up row at a moderate pace. Then, increase the resistance and row at a faster pace for one minute. Repeat this interval for the duration of your workout. Like above, cool down with a few minutes of easy rowing at the end.
Stair Climber/Stair Stepper
A Stair climber (or stepper) is a great piece of cardio equipment if you’re worried about your joints. It simulates the act of climbing stairs and with adjustable speeds, they can also present a very challenging workout.
Start with a warm-up jump at a moderate pace. Then, increase the speed and intensity of your stepping for one to two minutes and repeat this interval for the duration of your workout. Finally, cool down with a few minutes of low-intensity stair climbing at the end.
Tips For Success
- Start slowly and gradually increase your workout intensity as you get more comfortable.
- Remember to warm up before your workout and cool down afterward.
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.
- Listen to your body and rest when you need to.
- Have fun and enjoy the challenge!
Other Considerations
It is important to note that high intensity low impact cardio is not for everyone. If you have health concerns, checking with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine is always best.
In addition, if you are pregnant or have had recent surgery, you should avoid high intensity low impact cardio. As always, listen to your body and do not push yourself too hard.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a great workout that is easy on the joints, burns calories, and improves cardiovascular health, high intensity low impact cardio is an excellent option. There are many different ways to do this cardio, so you can find an exercise routine that fits your needs and preferences. So give it a try and see how you like it!
Editor-In-Chief at Recovatech. Dr. Ben is a board-certified Doctor of Chiropractic with over 10 years of clinical experience. He specializes in structural and neurological imbalances with an emphasis on functional movement patterns, exercise performance, and muscle recovery. He has been the team chiropractor for professional baseball and soccer organizations, as well as collegiate athletes. In his personal life, he’s always been driven when it comes to athletics and personal performance.