Low Impact Exercise for Women
Posted in Fitness by inMotion Life
When starting a new fitness program or activity, it’s important that woman approach exercising differently from men. Of course, this doesn’t mean you can’t exercise with your husband or boyfriend, or any male partner for that matter. There are just certain things you need to consider and be cautious of. This will also be dependent on your age.
Women are more prone to developing osteoporosis as they get older. So if you are over 40 you will want to pay close attention to your joints. If you feel any sudden or sharp pain that doesn’t go away quickly, you should visit your doctor for a check up.
Women over 50 will usually be experiencing plenty of hormonal changes and this can affect how your body reacts to certain activities. The best thing you can do for your body is to listen to what it’s telling you and heed any warning signs.
For example if you wanted to take up a new sport after being inactive for a while, you aren’t going to suddenly start running 5 miles or kilometres a day. You have to start off slowly and gradually work yourself to greater distances so that your body can adjust to this new regimen.
Low impact exercises are really your best bet. This can include simple things like going for a walk, swimming or even playing a round of golf. It’s always advisable to warm up and stretch your body before you begin exercising. About five to ten minutes of warm up time is advisable.
The same goes for cooling down. Ensure that you slow your heart rate down during the last ten minutes of your workout, and then make time to gently stretch your muscles and tendons. This way you’re less likely to hurt yourself and risk being out of action before your exercise routine can even become a habit.
One of the best activities for women of all ages is water aerobics. These classes are popping up at more and more fitness facilities around the world. Classes can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a full hour. They usually have classes for beginners, advanced and seniors. Participating in a water aerobics class is fun, gentle on your joints and a great way to meet new people and socialize.
If you are an overweight woman, then low impact exercises are highly recommended. Depending on how much weight you need to lose, you can start off by walking to the end of your street each day. Try to increase the distance each day and within two weeks you should notice a huge improvement in your endurance and stamina.
Better still, round up the girls, and go for group walks around your neighbourhood. This will be safer and much more fun…
What other low impact exercises do you enjoy doing? Share your ideas in the comments below.
