Low Impact, High Results: Harnessing Exercise Equipment for Effective Workouts

For a number of individuals high impact exercises such as running, some types of group fitness classes or certain sports with lots of high impact activities may be contraindicated (i.e. not suitable). The main reason is injuries caused by constant pounding which can lead  to shin splints,  joint  problems in the feet, knees or hips and sore overworked muscles. For overweight and older persons there are also compelling reasons to replace high impact workouts with alternatives. One solution is to add in low impact activities like swimming. bike riding and brisk walking. Another really good option with plenty of benefits is to incorporate a variety of different types of exercise equipment into a regular workout regime. This can best be done by joining a fitness centre, becoming a client at a personal training studio or buying your own equipment and setting up a home gym. This would give an individual a large number of options to exercise in a safe and enjoyable manner. Here are some activities to consider:

1. Cardio Equipment; such as an upright or recumbent exercise bike, an elliptical or what is also called a cross trainer, a rowing machine and even a treadmill (walking only not running), In some cases as with a cross trainer and treadmill, an incline can sometimes be used to increase the intensity of the workout but still not promote any high impact activities. To add variety in an exercise session and use different types of muscles, a cross trainer can  be used to go backwards and on a treadmill walking backwards or even using sideway leg cross overs can be undertaken along with the traditional forward motion. The most notable cardio equipment suppliers are Life Fitness, Technogym, Precor, Matrix, Peloton and Concept 2 most of which have commercial and home models.
2. Group Fitness Classes; encompass a range of options, including spin bike sessions or classes featuring low-impact aerobic exercises and light weights. Notably, Les Mills offers a variety of popular classes worldwide, available in numerous fitness centers. However, it’s advisable to review the gym’s fitness class schedule for other intriguing options. Moreover, for those utilizing a home gym, various fitness apps can provide structured workout routines to augment their fitness journey.
3. Mind-Body; workouts such as Pilates and Yoga classes with their emphasis on a meditative aspect, flexibility improvement and muscular strength enhancement. When done in a fitness setting there is the added social benefit of working out with others but they can also be done alone in a home gym setting.
4. Strength Training; exercises using a wide variety of equipment such as free weights, pin loaded machines, multi-stations, kettle bells, rubber bands, body-weight exercises and others. There are plenty of suppliers with great strength training equipment including  Life Fitness, Technogym, Precor, Matrix, Hammer Strength, Keiser and Australian Barbell Company.
5. Relaxation, Regeneration and Recovery Activities: Always try to spend some time in your workout on a wide array of activities having a therapeutic value. This includes using a sauna, spa, meditation techniques, stretching exercises, massage and deep breathing exercises to cite several of the more popular choices.

In a world where fitness choices impact our bodies, the need for low impact activities such as swimming, biking, and walking is imminent. Furthermore, integrating diverse exercise equipment into routines through fitness centers, personal training studios, or home gyms is suggested for a safe and enjoyable workout experience. We must focus on inculcating a consistent and diverse workout routine that focuses on holistic well-being and understanding our bodies.