We all know it’s essential for heart health, endurance, and staying energized, but what if your joints aren’t on board with high-impact activities? Or maybe the thought of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) makes you want to curl up on the couch instead?

Here’s the good news: You can still crush your cardio goals with low-impact exercises that are easy on your joints but still pack a punch for your heart.

Why Cardio Matters

From the Proactive Aging Blueprint: “Cardio isn’t punishment; it’s maintenance for your body’s engine—your heart. Low-impact options like walking, cycling, or swimming protect your joints while keeping your heart healthy, your energy high, and your body moving like a well-oiled machine.”

Cardio doesn’t have to be hard on your body to be effective. The key is finding low-impact exercises you enjoy and can stick with.

Low-Impact Cardio Options

• Walking: One of the simplest ways to boost your heart rate. Add hills or speed up for a challenge.
• Cycling: Great for your knees and hips while giving you a cardio boost.
• Swimming: Full-body, joint-friendly, and an incredible calorie burner.
• Rowing: Low-impact but highly effective for your upper body and core. (and my favorite!)
• Dancing: A fun way to move, sweat, and smile. (like nobody’s watching! )

Get Started with Low-Impact Cardio

Ready to make cardio work for YOU? Download my FREE guide: “10 Low-Impact Cardio Exercises and 3 Badass Workouts“  Inside, you’ll find easy-to-follow exercises and workouts that protect your joints while keeping your heart strong.

Your Challenge

Try at least ONE low-impact cardio exercise this week. Share in the comments which one you picked and how it felt. Let’s keep moving and supporting each other, Badasses!

Remember: Cardio doesn’t have to leave you gasping for air or limping around the next day. It’s about finding what works for your body and making it part of your routine. Let’s get to it! 

PEACE.

Rick