Let’s bring it back to basics. Let’s figure out the nitty gritty of positions, alignments, breathing and technique. We can’t run before we can walk and the same goes for fitness classes.
Even if you are an avid gym bunny, but have understandably had a few weeks off, take the time to figure it out again, assessing which style of training is right for you, and potentially switching up your exercise regime.
If you’re keen to try something new, why not try Low Impact Training (LIT)? This style of training has benefits for everyone, and below are just 6 reasons why you should give it a go in 2020:
It’s Perfect for Beginners
Low Impact Training is a great way to get started if you have never stepped foot in a gym, or if it’s been a while. This is because classes leave out anything high impact and allow you to focus on more grounded positions. To learn the basics, join a LIT group training class, these classes tend to be smaller, which allows the instructor to give assistance and personal corrections.
It’s Kinder on your Joints
Low Impact Training is kinder to our joints. As we get older the cartilage in our joints decreases, and as much we all wish we were 18 again, we need to be mindful that our body isn’t. Some may say that running, agility, speed and plyometric training is their thing, which is great, but you need to compliment those styles with a strong base. Low Impact Training still lifts your heart rate, it works strongly on stabilisation and you can usually get a full body workout in without stepping a foot on the treadmill.
It Enhances Bone Density
We start to lose bone density as we get a bit older, especially women after menopause. LIT training can be a great preventative, helping to preserve bone density so that you don’t encounter problems in later life. Most Low Impact style classes, with the exception of Barre tend to use heavier weights and focus on strength training. Loading heavier weights onto the body can increase bone density and also reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
It can aid Recovery
Low Impact Training can be helpful to anyone harbouring a minor injury. Before embarking on any training post-injury, make sure you have the all clear from a doctor or physiotherapist and depending on the scale of your injury, always let the instructor know about it before a class. In most Low Impact classes, you will be choosing your own weights, so you can start off lighter than your normal weight range to ease your body back into movement again. You can also ask the instructor for your range or movement to be a little smaller or ask for a modification if something doesn’t feel right. With time, you’ll build up strength again in the injured area and be back on track!
It can help you to Learning and Growing, not just Physically
This reason is so important and one that a lot of people mention after they’ve been to Low Impact classes consistently for a few weeks. Learning how to do something new, what effect it has on your body and how to improve at it has so many long-term benefits. Simple movements can be so complex, the more we talk about them and challenge them, finding a bigger range of movement and progressing in weights or reps can become transferable skills that you can take with you wherever you go.
It’s Gaining in Popularity
In recent years, there has been an explosion of Low Impact Training classes, so there’s really no excuse not to give it a bash. And if you’re still not completely sold on swapping out your HIIT routine, why not add LIT in now and again? At FLY LDN (www.flyldn.co.uk), London’s leading immersive yoga and LIT training studio, our LIT classes compliment other types of training and include a maximum of 6 people per class to ensure attendees get a personalised experience alongside learning new skills and movements which will strengthen and tone their bodies.