Exercise, especially cardiovascular exercise, has long been know for its health benefits. But, there have been some downsides to this type of exercise, specifically impact injuries. So the question is, what are the best types of fitness equipment for low-impact workouts?
For example – when you run, gravity is pushing down on your body, and the force of gravity, combined with the force your exerting to move forward, has an impact on your joints. If you’re recovering from a previous injury, you have bad joints, or you have knee, hip, or ankle issues, that impact can cause you more harm than good. Workouts that allow you to get a great cardio workout, without that impact, means your workouts will continue to improve, while minimizing the chance of injury. Here’s a list of the types of workout equipment that lend themselves to low-impact workouts.
Ellipticals
With an elliptical trainer, your feet rest in pedals that you place your feet in, while your arms hold poles that are connected to the pedals. As you slide your feet fore and aft, your arms also move fore and aft, similar to a cross country skiing motion. Since your feet never leave the pedals, there is no impact.
Rowers
With a rowing machine, you get an incredible upper and lower body workout. While in a sitting position, with your feet on pedals in front of you, you grasp the handle, and while pushing with your legs away from the pedals, you also pull back on the handle. This rowing motion is very low impact, but is great for also strengthening your upper back.
Steppers and Climbers
Steppers have steps that you place your feet on and handles to hold on to for balance. You then lift the steps up and down as if you are walking up steps – resulting in a no impact workout. Stair climbers look like a small staircase. You start the machine and then step up each step as they continually revolve around. Being that you are stepping in a vertical plane, the impact is low.
Exercise Bikes
If you’re looking for a great cardio workout, exercise bikes give you the feeling of riding a bicycle outdoors, but in the comfort of your own home. And the pedaling motion is great for your legs, while minimizing impact to your knees, hips, and ankles. Keep in mind that there are two types of exercise bikes. Upright bikes are similar to a regular bicycle, but can be hard on your back – so, if you have back issues, you may want to consider the other type of exercise bike – a Recumbent bike. These are operated from a horizontal position, where you sit like you would in a chair, and the pedals are out in front of you.
At Fitness 4 Home Superstore, we carry an extensive variety of both new and used fitness equipment, including ellipticals, rowers, steppers, and exercise bikes. Stop into any of our three Phoenix-area stores and experience our full selection today! And, we offer 0% financing on our new and used equipment, making your choice of fitness equipment for your low-impact workouts that much more affordable!
