The human body needs regular exercise. Exercising boosts the immune system and fights infection. It also supports muscle development, stamina, and weight loss. Therefore, being physically active is beneficial to health.
Running, weight lifting, and playing sports are only some of the myriad of ways on how a person can stay fit. These exercises are the most popular, especially to men, since it enhances muscle growth and development. However, take note that there is a proper way of exercising.
Introducing High-Impact and Low-Impact Workout
There are two classifications of exercises. These are high-impact and low impact workout. Each one of these classifications has a different effect on the body. The effect varies on the individual’s body type and physical condition.
What is a High-Impact Workout?
Before anything else, understand the term “impact” on these workout categories. The impact refers to the action of one object coming in contact with another object. For example, when running, the leg muscles and ankle feel a great impact against the floor or ground.
A high-impact workout refers to exercises wherein the body gets in contact with another object, equipment, or body harder. Examples of high-impact workouts are cross-training, running, jumping jacks, boxing, and other similar exercises.
High-impact workouts are harder and more challenging for the body. It applies great pressure on the muscles and joints. Since high-impact exercises are more intense, it shows faster results. It is why athletes and bodybuilders usually use high-impact exercises as their routine.
What is a Low-Impact Workout?
A low-impact workout is the complete opposite of high-impact exercises. It offers minimal to zero impact on the body. Low-impact workouts require leaving at least a foot off the ground. Hence, this type of exercise applies lesser stress and pressure on muscles and joints.
Specialists recommend low-impact exercises to individuals who suffer from chronic pain and have an underlying medical condition. Moreover, it is the best exercise program for seniors who want to stay fit and physically active.
Examples of low-impact exercises are walking, swimming, cycling, yoga, hiking, dancing, and Pilates. Since it is easier on the body, such exercise offers slower results. Though it is less strenuous, low-impact exercises still offer similar benefits to high-impact workouts. It supports stamina, cardiovascular health, weight loss, and enhances the immune system.
Conditions Where High Impact Exercise Applies
Below are the conditions when high-impact exercises best fit.
- Faster weight loss and burning of calories
- Muscle building
- Ideal for individuals searching for tougher challenges
- Best for individuals that are at low risk for injury
- Improving bone density
- Body conditioning and training for competition
Conditions Where Low Impact Exercise Applies
The following situations and conditions are ideal for low-impact exercises.
- Looking for exercises that are easy on the joints and muscles
- When recovering from injuries
- Improving balance
- Ideal for seniors who wants to be active
- Improves alignment and flexibility
Additional Advice
Before choosing any exercise program, make sure to consult a medical professional who is familiar with your condition. They can point you towards the best exercises that are suitable for your body. With this, you won’t waste time and effort working on programs that have minimal effect on the body or might cause great stress.