Low Impact Cardio Training?

[Matt]

I've recently started running/jogging in the afternoon to augment my
morning elliptical training. However, this has already been taking a
toll on my joints. I'm a pretty sizeable guy (6'7" and 210 lbs) and I
can't imagine all of the impact involved in jogging is good for me in
the long run.

I'm looking for some good ways to get my heart rate up and burn some
calories with less impact. I really enjoy the fall weather so it
would be great if these activities were outdoors as well. What can I
do that will give me a similar cardiovascular workout with less
impact?

Thanks,
Matt

[TLN Phil]

Hi Matt.

The first form of exercise that individuals always seem to jump into
for starting or restarting their fitness activities is running or
jogging (especially true for guys). While it may seem simple enough
to throw on your sneakers, make a feeble attempt to stretch and then
hit the pavement, as you mentioned, it can prove painful--and not the
good kind.

You mentioned "low-impact". Jogging is "high impact". Even at an
easy pace, for every stride you take on the hard ground, the weight of
your body is transferring through each leg to the bottom of your
foot. That's very much why your knees, hips and lower back are so
stiff for days after going for a "leisurely run". Keep it up
informally without proper preparation or consistency and you could
find yourself with nagging injuries.

If you haven't worked out for a while, are just getting into it, or
simply looking for an activity for cardio fitness, their are
definitely better choices than jogging.

It may not seem like it, but walking is great! It is low-impact, and
by keeping a good pace, is a wonderful cardio activity. I read
somewhere that an easy way to gauge when you are at a good heart rate
for cardio health and fat-burning, you can talk comfortably, but it is
difficult to sing. Make it more challenging by choosing a hilly
course or walking bleachers or steps.

Since you like the outdoors, recreational biking and hiking are
awesome cardio activities. Other indoor activities along with using
the elliptical, are stationary bikes and walking on the treadmill.
Swimming labs is tremendous because it it low-impact and works nearly
every muscle in your body!

Oh yeah... and don't forget to balance out your cardio training with
weight training at least once or twice a week!

Regards,

TLN Phil