As we get older, it can become more challenging to stay active and keep our bodies fit. As we age, our bodies rarely respond to exercise as well as they used to, and we begin to notice increased fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and a slower metabolism. While it may be more difficult to see fitness progress in our later years, it is more significantly more important to remain active as we continue to age. As a fitness enthusiast, Stephen Troese Jr. recognizes the importance of low-impact exercises for older generations or those with joint issues and hopes to share with readers various low-impact sports to encourage individuals to stay active.
Swimming (Breaststroke): 458 calories per 30 active minutes
Swimming is one of the most recommended low-impact exercises for weight loss as it works the entire body in a comfortable and low-risk environment. Out of any exercise, swimming burns the most calories, averaging 900 calories per hour for the breast-stroke; however, freestyle also burns a significant amount of calories. Thanks to the water’s buoyancy, swimming is highly low-impact and will put little to no pressure on the joints during exercise. Swimming is an excellent option for both fitness enthusiasts and amateurs as it requires little equipment and prior knowledge of swimming techniques.
Cycling: 250 calories per 30 active minutes
Cycling is one of the best cardiovascular exercises out there and also provides an excellent low-impact exercise for those looking to burn calories and lose weight. Similar to swimming, cycling requires minimal equipment and can be performed all year long. Whether cyclists want to participate in a team or ride solo, cycling is a great way to challenge yourself while not straining joints and muscles. Furthermore, recent studies have also found that cycling can provide riders with a multitude of benefits, including —
– Deeper sleep and reduced insomnia
– Improved gut health and bowel movements
– Increased joint mobility
Rowing: 255 calories per 30 active minutes
Rowing is another great option for those looking to burn calories without putting stress on their joints. By working out on rowing machines, individuals can better control their movement and pace and reduce the risk of injury. On average, Stephen Troese Jr says that individuals can expect to burn close to 500 calories per hour of exercise, much higher than other popular sports. One of the other great benefits of rowing is that it activates the lower body’s quadriceps and gluteus, the upper body’s deltoids and lats, and the core’s abdominal muscles all at once, creating an effective and efficient workout.