Both low-impact workouts and high-impact workouts can give you a great workout, but do you know what their differences are and which one is the best type of workout for your particular needs? Many times we push our bodies to their limit, which can cause injuries, such as sprains, broken muscles, and back problems, which is why it’s so important to choose the right workout that best suits you, depending on your weight, height, and what you want to get out of it.
Low-impact workouts
According to lifefitness.com, when we practice low impact exercises at least one or both feet touch the ground at all times. This puts less force and stress on your body. But don’t confuse low-impact with the slower pace of low-intensity workouts.
Types of low impact exercises include walking, yoga, cycling, kayaking, hiking, water aerobics, tai chi, boxing, pilates, golf, rollerblading, cycling, rowing, and even using the elliptical.
These are great for people who already suffer pain in their bodies, for the elderly, young kids, those that have suffered broken bones, have bad joints, are overweight, or are pregnant. If you’re a fitness newbie, starting with low-impact cardio is a great way to dip your toes into exercise. But, don’t be discouraged because these types of workouts are a great form of cardio and can even help transform your body, but at a slower pace.
High-impact workouts
High impact workouts burn more calories than low-impact activities, but high-impact have a greater chance of injury. With these exercises, both feet are off the ground at the same time.
Types of high-impact exercises include running (going outdoors or running on the treadmill is up to you), jumping rope, cross-fit, or dance-based classes with high leaps and jumps.
People that are high energy enjoy doing these types of workouts because they are fast-paced, plus you get results quicker. Yet, you have to be very careful that you are in good shape when doing these types of workouts because if you already have weak joints or prior injuries, doing a high-impact workout can worsen things.
Now that you know this information, you should start being more conscious about which exercises you practice and if they suit you. If you have any sort of pain, you should talk to your doctor or trainer and always remember, whatever workout you chose, if it hurts you have to stop immediately.