When it comes to working out, the general consensus is to push as hard as you can and grind through the pain. This may have been effective for some people, but the fact of the matter is that not everyone can keep up with this lifestyle.
Recent studies have also shown that high-intensity workouts can also lead to injuries in some individuals. This can manifest itself as joint pains and persistent fatigue that will eventually lead to a major injury. With all that said, let’s take a look at three reasons why you should consider low-intensity workouts for your fitness needs.
More Fun During Exercise
While it may be reasonable to expect that exercise should feel like it should be difficult, there’s nothing wrong with looking for a way to actually enjoy the workout. In fact, some will say that having more fun with their workouts led them to find an easier path to becoming fit and healthy.
When it comes to exercise, consistency is key. There’s no point in focusing on high-intensity activity if you will find it difficult to maintain the routine. Instead, you can start with lower-intensity workouts first and inject high-intensity exercises into your routine should you need them.
Better Joint Health
In a similar vein, low-intensity workouts are more kind to your joints and can help prevent injuries down the line. The problem is that some high-intensity exercises require muscles to perform at a specific level—perform lower than that level, and your body might begin to use the wrong muscles in your exercises. You might not even notice the effects at first, but over time, this can lead to severe joint injuries.
By focusing on low-intensity workouts, you can find a more manageable way to strengthen the area around the joint first. This will help keep things stable and allow the joint to function as it should. This way, you can be fit while also maintaining your mobility and flexibility.
Benefit Balance and Stability
Working off of the previous point, low-intensity workouts are best for people looking to improve stability and overall balance. This is because these workouts tend to focus on form and function rather than all-out strength. With this different perspective, you can work on fine-tuning your muscles to be able to maintain stability even in difficult situations.
It’s the same reason that basketball players will train by balancing their feet on yoga balls. This allows them to work on the small muscles that contribute to the player’s overall balance and allow them to perform tasks much more efficiently.
What Counts As Low-Intensity Workouts?
You can expect low-intensity workouts to be a lot more relaxed in form, but don’t let that fool you. Do these right and you are sure to feel the burn in your muscles as you proceed. Here are a few examples of some low-intensity workouts you can try yourself:
- Go for a hike
- Indoor/Outdoor Cycling
- Go for a swim
- Rowing
- Cardio (including walking)
Conclusion
At the end of the day, your goal is to help yourself be healthier. It doesn’t matter how you get there; what matters is that you are able to feel comfortable in your own skin. With all that, it’s highly recommended that anyone who is new to the idea of exercising to start off with low-intensity exercises.
The Fit Factor Personal Training takes a personal approach to fitness by creating tailored programs that align with your goals and motivations. If you’re looking for a reliable fitness training program in Wellesley, then this is the place for you. Start your fitness journey with us today!
Chad has been my personal trainer for over 10 years. He is very dedicated and resourceful as a trainer. I would highly recommend Chad. He has kept my body healthy through all these years and in my 50s. Chad is also very accommodating to working with your schedule. Wouldn't go anywhere else.
I love working out with Chad! I have been working out with him for the past year and a half and have had the best results compared with other trainers. Chad’s dedication to his clients, humor, warmth and expertise are a winning combination. I look forward to our sessions and always leave feeling stronger, more flexible and energetic. I highly recommend Chad.
I have been working with Chad (the trainer) for almost three years now and have gone through an amazing transformation! He bonds greatly with his clients and is a very qualified trainer. He tailors workouts to individual clients and has helped me perform better as an equestrian and achieve my physique goals. If you are looking for a great one-on-one trainer, I would highly recommend.
When I started going to the fit factor I went in thinking I had a pretty good knowledge of weight lifting and exercise without having much to improve. I was so wrong! Chad was incredible and really took the time to explain and show proper technique as well as a variety of different exercises that I had never done before. I now have much more confidence in my form and have a really great and well rounded routine. Additionally, Chad catered to my personal goals and really listened to what I wanted to accomplish. I cannot recommend The fit factor and Chad enough!
I have been weight lifting for over five years but have never had dedicated instruction from a trainer. Chad was able to notice where my form was failing and correct it immediately. He also guided me towards effective exercises so that I could keep achieving my goals and moving up. After a couple of months of working with him I was able to see some great results. Chad knows his stuff!
Chad has been great with not only the types of specialized workouts each session but also with checking in after the sessions. He has a real passion for seeing people make big health changes; which makes it fun. Would highly recommend!
I went to Chad looking to get back in shape and lose weight, which had crept up from working long hours. Chad was super patient and non-judgmental. We started at a level where I would see results but not get so sore or so disappointed at what I could not do it. He focused on what I could do if I pushed myself hard and taught me that step/skill building was an integral part of the process. We also talked about nutrition and self-care. As other reviews have mentioned, he cares about his clients beyond the appointment time, and wants them to make positive change to their lives that will stick. I lost 30+ pounds and I am in the best shape of my life. I have been able to maintain this for 2 years. He taught me how to create a sustainable workout plan. Even during the pandemic I was able to maintain my weight and my fitness level thanks for his frequent check-ins and the solid fitness base we created through his work and fitness mentorship. I highly recommend him!
I started with Chad in August 2020, my first semester of college was cancelled and i needed something active to do. At that point I was a small underweight kid looking to gain muscle and gain weight. I went to Chad 3 times a week until late January 2021. Those 5 months were great, I really enjoyed going to chad and it was the highlight of my week and something I would look forward to going to 3 times every week. Throughout this time Chad has perfected my form on workouts and had a great and unique workout for me everytime. I went in weighing 125 pounds at 5’10 and now I weigh 150 pounds after the five months. Not only did Chad give workouts but he also gave me a diet for me to follow so I could maximize my time with him. He really personalizes workouts for each person. Currently i’m in the best shape of my life and am super confident in my body. GO TO FIT-FACTOR!!