Exercise doesn’t exclusively consist of strenuous activity. Just because some people are hardcore weightlifters or marathon runners doesn’t mean everyone needs to be. In fact, there are many different low-stress exercises to include in your routine that improve your mental and physical health. Doing them is a great way to practice self-care. Read more about these below.
Power Walking
Power walking is one of the best forms of light fitness to get your heart moving without overstressing yourself. It involves walking faster than your natural gait. Power walking is entirely personal. You hold yourself accountable to keep a fast pace. It’s a great alternative to jogging and can raise 60 to 80 percent of your max heart rate. Consider using light dumbbells or a weighted backpack for added resistance. Overall, power walking is a safer alternative to running, as it reduces pressure on the knees and joints but still elevates your heart rate. Daily walks can also help reduce your anxiety levels as you enjoy your outdoor surroundings.
Swimming
Swimming is another great low-stress exercise. It’s primarily a cardiovascular and aerobic exercise, as it requires a constant oxygen supply for the muscles. Swimming is perhaps one of the best full-body workouts you can do because it requires every muscle to work in tandem to move you. Additionally, swimming tones and strengthen muscles and can help prevent or mitigate arthritis in older individuals. You don’t need to replicate Olympic intensity either. Even swimming laps at your desired speed and intensity is a great way to stay in shape without putting too much pressure on your body. You’ll feel refreshed afterward.
Yoga
No list of different low-stress exercises to include in your routine is complete without yoga. Yoga is one of, if not the most, popular low-stress exercises around. It involves full-body movements designed to reduce stress, anxiety, and pain. There are various types of yoga poses to know, including the downward dog, triangle pose, and tree pose. Each pose helps circulate blood and oxygen throughout the body. The moves also place light pressure on aches or pains to alleviate physical stress. Also, since it’s not as strenuous as weight training or running a marathon, anyone can do yoga so long as they’re physically capable. Even the most inflexible individuals will find it rejuvenating.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a type of Chinese martial art originally for self-defense. However, it has quickly become a form of alternative exercise and martial arts therapy. It’s low-stress and one of the most popular activities among seniors. That’s because Tai Chi concentrates the mind and body. This form of meditation is great for cognitive therapy as well as physical relief. Younger practitioners may still train in tai chi to learn self-defense, too.
