20 November 2022
It’s a common misconception that exercise is only for those that are already fit, have no injuries and seem to find everything easy! However, we know better. Here are 3 ways exercise can be suitable for you, no matter what your circumstances.
1. Choose a low impact exercise
Workouts are generally split into high or low impact.
High Impact Exercise
High impact exercise refers to anything that require one or multiple body parts coming off the ground such as running, jumping and those dreaded burpees! This type of exercise can be very effective as it gets your heart rate up quickly so you can burn more calories, it can strengthen your heart and lungs, and improve your bone density (making your bones stronger and less susceptible to osteoporosis). However, high impact exercise can also cause overuse injuries, and pain through joints, ligaments and tendons. It can also be quite uncomfortable if you are overweight or have any pre-existing injuries, so it certainly isn’t a form of exercise suitable for everyone.
Low Impact Exercise
Low impact exercise involves at least one foot to be attached to the ground during a movement such as walking and each of the Barrecore class formats! This form of exercise is safe for joints and can often be performed by anyone carrying an injury, as they take the force out of movements. Low impact exercise can still be really effective at raising the heart rate too - so if you love cardio, don’t rule it out! You’ll be amazed at how much of a burn you can get without the need to run or jump!
2. Modifications are available for almost any exercise
If you’re concerned you won’t be able to perform a certain movement, or have an injury that rules it out completely, then there are always ways to change an exercise to make it more suitable for you. For example, push ups are a great exercise for building strength in the shoulders, arms and chest. But they are often a tough exercise to perform when you’re just starting out. So, modify the exercise and make it easier by performing it on your knees, or even on an incline (feet on the floor and hands on a chair/table top). Eventually you’ll start to feel stronger to progress to the next level.
Remember - most high impact exercises will also have a low impact variation as well!
Make sure you speak to your teacher or personal trainer about any concerns you may have, and they will be able to help you.
3. Take advantage of Private Training
It can sometimes feel daunting walking into a group class if you aren’t feeling confident with the exercise you are about to take part in or if you know you’ll need to modify a range of the movements. By working with a teacher 1-1 they can effectively prescribe movements and exercises to suit injuries, fitness level and even level of enjoyment!
A personal trainer can also help to hold you accountable to sessions as well, so if you think you’re someone who can easily find an excuse to not move - “I’m tired”, “my legs hurt” - not only can they motivate you to turn up, but they can plan a session to suit how you’re feeling at the time. Private Training is a great option if you are looking for a more personalised programme to help you achieve results.
So if you ever find yourself with an injury, or feeling as though exercise isn’t for you - think again! We can definitely set you up for success!
