
When you think about workouts that deliver results, do you automatically picture something high-intensity? You know, all the jumping, sprinting, and burpees you can handle? I used to think the same way. For a long time, I assumed low-impact workouts were just for rest days, not serious results. Spoiler alert—I was so wrong.
Some of my best results have actually come from low-impact exercises. And if you’ve been feeling like high-impact isn’t working for your body anymore, I’m here to tell you that you can absolutely stay fit and feel amazing without it.
My Turning Point
First, don’t get me wrong—I’ve had a good time with high-impact fitness. Shaun T’s programs like Cize and T-20 are still among my all-time favorites. But in February of 2018, everything changed after a freak volleyball accident. It left me with injuries that made high-impact workouts painful and unsustainable.
For months, I figured I’d just “push through,” but my body had other plans. The jump-back wasn’t happening. That’s when I discovered yoga. And wow did it change my life.
Why Yoga Became My Best Friend
A neurosurgeon I visited during my recovery once joked that yoga isn’t really a workout. (“You just stand there, right?” he said.) Oh, how wrong he was. For me, yoga has been a total game-changer.
Strength, flexibility, muscle definition, mental clarity—it’s all there in a yoga practice. The beauty of yoga is that it doesn’t just work the outside; it focuses on your well-being from the inside out. It’s honestly the most well-rounded form of exercise I’ve found.
Since switching to yoga and other low-impact workouts, I’ve tried to go back to high-impact a few times, thinking I might miss it. But you know what? I really don’t. Yoga makes me feel strong, aligned, and at peace with my body in ways I never expected.
The Truth About Low-Impact Workouts
Here’s what I’ve learned through all of this: low-impact doesn’t mean low-results. The key is to keep moving. Whether it’s yoga, pilates, strength training, or even walking, the most important thing is to find what feels good for your body.
A few other benefits of low-impact workouts include:
- Reduced risk of injury: Ideal for those with joint issues or recovering from past injuries.
- Improved strength and flexibility: Helpful for building a strong, functional body.
- Sustainable fitness: Something you can stick to in the long run without burning out.
And of course, it matters how you fuel yourself. Cleaning up your eating habits works hand in hand with movement to give you the best results. Bad eating habits will hold you back, no matter how much you work out.
What’s Your Style?
Now I’m curious. Are you a low-impact or high-impact worker outer? Or maybe you’re somewhere in between? (And yes, “worker outer” is definitely a term. It’s a thing—I’m making it happen!)
Your Next Step
Check out my guide to fitness over 40 for tips, workouts, and inspiration to help you stay active and feel incredible. You deserve to feel your best, without feeling like you have to sacrifice your body to get there.
xoxo Angela
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