3 Myths Surrounding Low-Impact Workouts, Debunked

CCarson October 31, 2023 7:03 AM

We've all heard the buzz around low-impact workouts. From your friend who swears by her daily yoga routine, to your coworker who's newly obsessed with swimming, this form of exercise seems to be everywhere. But with all the hype, there's also a lot of misinformation. Let's debunk some of the most common myths about low-impact workouts.

Myth #1: Low-impact workouts don't burn a lot of calories

Many people believe that low-impact workouts aren't effective for weight loss because they don't burn a lot of calories. But this couldn't be further from the truth.

In fact, many low-impact exercises can burn just as many calories as their high-impact counterparts. For instance, a 'Low-Impact Cardio Workouts' can burn as much as 500 calories in an hour, depending on your weight, intensity, and duration of the workout.

Even better, low-impact workouts are often easier on the joints, making them a great option for people with joint issues or those who are in the process of rehabilitation.

Myth #2: Low-impact workouts are only for beginners or older adults

Another common misconception is that low-impact workouts are only suitable for beginners or older adults. This is simply not the case.

In reality, low-impact workouts can be beneficial for everyone, regardless of their fitness level or age. After all, even the fittest athletes need to give their joints a break sometimes!

Low-impact exercises can also be easily modified to increase their intensity, making them a great option for anyone looking to mix up their fitness routine.

Myth #3: Low-impact workouts don't build strength or muscle

The last myth we're debunking is the belief that low-impact workouts don't build strength or muscle. This is a huge misconception!

Low-impact strength training, like Pilates or resistance band workouts, can effectively build muscle and improve strength. What's more, these types of workouts often target multiple muscle groups at once, providing a full-body workout.

Low-Impact Exercise Calories Burned (per hour) Muscle Groups Worked
1. Yoga 240-356 Core, legs, arms
2. Swimming 423-632 Full body
3. Pilates 240-360 Core, legs, arms
4. Cycling 480-712 Legs, core
5. Rowing 560-840 Full body

So, next time you hear someone say that low-impact workouts are ineffective, you'll know better. Whether you're looking to lose weight, build strength, or simply improve your overall health, low-impact exercises can be a great addition to your fitness routine.

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