Easy, low-impact exercises to get you started

It can be tempting when starting exercise to go for it in a big way. Like any project, new interest or hobby, in the beginning, levels of energy and enthusiasm are high. Not to say that this is a bad thing, however, doing too much too soon with exercise can make a difference in your ability to maintain the new routine. 

Starting can be a daunting prospect and your body needs to adjust to this new idea your brain has for it. It’s also easy to think you need equipment, fitness clothes and go to the gym. From experience, it’s not the case and these things become barriers to getting going. You don’t need fancy stuff, have the confidence to turn up at a busy gym or fit into those fitness leggings. It’s about just giving it a go and seeing what works for you.

A quick note: Everyone’s abilities are different and you may even have mobility issues. If this is the case, always seek professional medical advice before pushing yourself. I always recommend warming up and cooling down properly whenever you exercise.

Here I’ve devised a short list of easy, low-impact exercises to get you started. There are also a few easy technique videos in my membership you can access for free.

Walking

We do it every day. Wandering about the house, around the supermarket and on the school run. Walking is a part of everyday life. If you’re just getting started, walking is probably the best way to exercise. It’s fairly low impact, you get to decide on how far you go and it’s free. You certainly don’t need fancy stuff for this one, a pair of shoes or trainers is plenty good enough.

If you don’t do much exercise at all, it’s a good idea to set yourself small goals. Some phones and watches have ways to track your steps. If you can, take a reading of how many steps you take per day and for the week. Set yourself a target. This is personal to you, no one else. It’s not a race, climbing a mountain or even doing 10,000 steps per day.

If you don’t have the technology to track your steps, try upping your walking time. If you live near a canal or footpath, try upping your distance by walking to the next bridge and back. You get to decide how far and for how long.

Remember to enjoy the experience. It’s not just about walking to get it done. Make it part of your wellness routine. Take a flask and sandwich. Stop off at a cafe and strike up a conversation with the people who work there. It does wonders to get out and about and talk to people. Incorporate walking into something you enjoy doing, you’re more likely to stick with it if you like it.

Dancing

You don’t need fancy moves or coordination to have fun dancing. Plus no one needs to see you dance, you can always close the curtains, stick on your favourite tunes and just got for it! There are no rules to it, no right or wrong music. It’s about having fun and moving your body.

Dancing is a great way to get movement into your body, increase your heart rate and burn calories. You can do it in the comfort of your own home. You can do it on your own or get your family involved. The ways and means to do this are endless. It’s almost too much fun to class as exercise.

Yoga

Just like walking and dancing, yoga is about using your body. Again, you don’t need anything to get started and no one will see you at home. The great thing about yoga is it’s good for different levels of ability. You don’t need the ability to wrap your legs around your head to do yoga. It’s about finding what works for you.

Another positive of yoga is it’s good for your body and mind. It is about centring yourself and bringing awareness to your breath. Finding moments of meditation tucked within the stretches. It’s an amazing way to use your body and simple to incorporate into your weekly at-home exercise routine.

I was grateful to be joined by Jenny Oakenfull, a qualified Yoga teacher, who provided a few weeks of live yoga classes to my members. These videos can be found in my paid membership video library.

Bodyweight exercises

Like yoga, body weight exercises use one’s body weight (obviously). Again, no need for fancy equipment, gym gear or clothing (although gym clothing is great for workouts). The point is you have no barrier to entry so you can start right away.

Within my free membership and YouTube channel, I have five different exercise technique videos for you to enjoy. Use the following links to get started with bodyweight exercises.