Keep Moving! 3 Low Impact Activities to Improve Your Circulation

If you feel sluggish, cold, or feel a bit off your game – poor circulation could be the culprit. You see, optimal circulation regulates your body temperature. When you keep your blood flowing properly, your body has an easier time regulating temperature.  It can help improve your energy to get you back in the game. No, you don’t have to run a marathon, or spend hours working out to see improvement in your health. Daily low impact activities can get you many of the same benefits as those from more intensive workouts.

Before Your Do ANY Low Impact Activities … 

A good way to get your body moving and experience the perks of better circulation is to engage in a low impact activity. Try one, or all of these three types of low impact exercise. Before you get started, remember to… 

 

Stretch Regularly

Stretch before any activity… even low impact activities! You hear it so often because it is so important. At any age it is wise to loosen up your muscles and tendons before putting physical demands on them. Based on your age and health condition, you can do simple low intensity stretches or go for a more advanced yoga regime. It’s also recommended to check with your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

Now… “Move it! Move it! … and Move it More!” 

Walking or Hiking

This is a simple activity loved by many. Not only is walking or hiking a great way to get your blood moving, it also provides you with a fantastic source of fresh air and natural sunlight. Have a friend or family member join you and you’ll get the benefits of the right oxygen levels flowing, Vitamin D provided by the sun and the fun of sharing it with someone. And, it’s free!

 

Yoga

Many people seem to believe Yoga is a simple set of stretches, and cannot compare to a workout with a set of old fashioned weights. This could not be more wrong. Depending on your level of skill, a Yoga session is one of the low impact activities that can produce results ranging from a light sweat to a heart thumping, full body challenge. There is an ever expanding field of Yoga routines online and many are free. Check your local library, as well, for Yoga instruction videos. The only equipment you need: a good mat.

Swimming

Swimming is an excellent low impact activity that engages all the muscle groups of the body. Even if you are not a great swimmer, you can stand in the water and move your arms in waving motions- your legs too. The water adds a challenging level of resistance while also relieving the stress of gravity from your joints. Hold paddles in your hands to increase the resistance and challenge yourself more. If you don’t have access to a pool, look into joining your local Y. Many hospitals also have indoor pools and offer low rates for a membership.

 

Low Impact Activities Mean Youthful Energy

Whether you walk, hike, practice Yoga or swim, the first step is to get up, put on your tennis shoes, grab a Yoga mat or dig out your swimsuit and just go for it!

Your body will thank you.. and you may feel an return of your youthful energy.

What are some of the ways you integrate low impact activities into your life? Do you have other questions, concerns, or additional ideas?  We’d love to hear from you! Click here to leave a comment >>

Related Article: 5 Ways to Regain Your Youthful Energy

This article was written by contributing author, C.R. Smyth

 

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