Want to work out but don't want to be left red faced?
Try some of our best low-intensity workouts
It doesn't have to be high intensity all the time...
Despite the popularity of HIIT (high-intensity interval training), new research suggests slowing down the pace of our workouts could actually get better results.
Low-intensity exercise is especially beneficial for people who are just beginning an exercise program or who have a chronic health condition, such as obesity or a heart condition. Pregnant women who did not exercise prior to becoming pregnant or those who have just had a baby also benefit from low-intensity exercise. If you want to lose weight but are not used to exercise, low-intensity workouts are a good place to begin. Low-intensity exercise usually burns about 2.5 calories per minute, depending on your weight.
Not only is exercise good for your physical health, there are so many benefits to your mental wellbeing too. Exercise can improve your mood, self-esteem, give you a sense of achievement, help you relax and relieve stress.
At our Place, we offer a range of activities for everyone, so you’re guaranteed to find something that suits you. We've given just a handful of examples to get you started throughout this article.
1. Pilates & Yoga
If you haven’t tried Pilates or Yoga, you should!
Yoga and Pilates are based on controlled movements, poses & breathing techniques which promote strength, flexibility and endurance but more importantly mental focus. In a world where we are constantly distracted by text messages, news alerts and social media notifications, these classes give you a distraction-free zone to focus solely on your mind & body.
So if you want some “me time” these classes are perfect for you.
2. Walking
Sometimes it’s the simplest things that can provide the best results. And this is true for walking.
It’s an easy low-impact activity that helps reduce tension in your muscle groups and deepens your breathing.
You can happily choose the intensity to work at which suits you. Even if you're short for time, taking a walk on your lunch break or walking here there and everywhere instead of driving or taking the bus, is the perfect way to burn some extra calories without ending up as a sweaty mess.
If you are not used to a walking workout, then start with a short distance and walk at a pace that suits you. You can easily crank up your speed and distance for improved calorie burn count.
3. Skating
Skating provides a great low impact workout which some studies have suggested provides the same level of aerobic activity as running or even riding a stationary bike. The calorie burn will depend on the effort you put in, and the route you take, but it is estimated that half an hour skating could burn in excess of 200 calories. Skating develops muscles in the entire upper leg, rear end and hip, as well as the lower back. Muscles in the upper arms and shoulders are also developed when arms are swung backwards and forwards while skating and you can increase your calorie burn just by swinging more vigorously.
Put on some fun tunes and take a trip back to the 90’s as you skate away at our Place!
We're sure you've found something you can't wait to try, so give it a go on us with a free pass.