As the new year begins, a common resolution many people tend to add to their list is to adopt healthier lifestyles. Before diving into the same routine, consider that low-impact workouts could be a sustainable alternative to turn that resolution into a lifestyle.
“The best thing we always say is just to move. It doesn’t matter your [experience] level or your skill set; it just matters that you move,” said Lucas Garcia, fitness manager at the Corpus Christi Athletic Club.
The hardest step is the first step — and in reality, mindset is the biggest barrier. Low-impact workouts can be beneficial to people of all ages and fitness levels, especially for those hesitant to walk into the gym and wander around intimidated by all the machines and weights. According to Garcia, low-impact workouts can be as simple as stretching, walking and even performing daily activities like gardening or cleaning. For those looking for more of a challenge, classes such as yoga, barre and Pilates are great entrances to vigorous exercise.
A common mentality people have when it comes to working out is that it has to be all or nothing. As a beginner, high-intensity workouts can feel overwhelming and leave you with a crippling soreness that provides a false sense of incapability. This results in people giving up before they reach their goals and potential. Low-impact workouts can feel manageable, thus giving you the confidence to continue incorporating exercise into your everyday routine, ultimately reaching your goal of leading a healthier lifestyle.
Garcia shared that some of the key benefits, besides long-term sustainability, are physical — such as building cardiovascular and muscular endurance, increased stamina and improved mobility. Unlike the physical demands of high-intensity workouts, low-impact workouts are gentle on the joints which minimizes the risk of injury, making them ideal for beginners, older adults or anyone recovering from injuries. Another key benefit is accessibility, since these workouts can be tailored to any fitness level or age group.
Incorporating low-impact workouts into your New Year’s resolutions is the first step to setting a manageable, realistic goal for improving your health. Unlike drastic changes that often lead to abandoned resolutions, committing to a low-impact routine encourages consistency.
Corpus Christi Athletic Club offers many options to incorporate low-impact workouts, with classes and amenities such as Pilates, yoga, barre-less, tai chi and water aerobics. Embrace low-impact movement in the new year for a healthier, balanced lifestyle that lasts.
Contact: 361-992-7100
