At the start of the year I think most of us vowed to get fitter, exercise more and generally live a healthier lifestyle. I've been pinning articles on Pinterest and having a good read about what a healthier lifestyle involves, and brushing up on tips and tricks to make it as simple as possible. One thing that keeps cropping up is the importance finding things that are manageable and that you enjoy. You don't have to invest in a gym membership or even purchase expensive equipment, a good way to start is a low impact activity that can be done right the way from being a beginner. Here are some low impact ideas that are worth incorporating into your routine. 

Walking is probably the simplest form of exercise you can do, it costs nothing and is a good option if you're just starting out. Research has even shown that people who walk for thirty minutes a day expend more energy than those who visit a gym once a week. Every step you take counts, there are loads of tips for getting those extra steps in. Park the car further away from the shops, get off the bus a stop early or take the stairs rather than the lift- you actually burn more calories per minute climbing stairs than you would jogging! At weekends go for a long walk but make it enjoyable rather than see it as a chore, if you have a dog take them out- half an hour will be over and done with before you know it. Taking a ball or frisbee to the park (once the weather warms up a bit!) and playing games is another fun and easy way to burn off some calories without it even feeling like effort.

Cycling is another low-impact form of exercising that I'm especially keen on, I have an stationary exercise bike although I'd love to get out there on a proper one this summer and go on a bike ride on a cycling trail. Jogging is another option but if you're just starting out it's important not to do too much too soon. Starting with twenty minutes of walking and jogging three times a week is your best bet, slowly increasing the ratio of time until you're able to jog for the entire period. To help overcome aching muscles, reduce swelling and provide additional warmth on those cold winter days, you may find it's worth investing in a compression sleeve to speed up your recovery. Other benefits of these include providing protection if you happen to trip or fall and helping prevent scratches from bushes and undergrowth when running along country trails.  We all know how keeping fit improves overall health, makes you feel better and promotes a feeling of wellbeing and so making just a little bit of extra time to incorporate some of these things is worth the effort. It doesn't have to be difficult or expensive, and developing a more positive outlook on life thanks to the endorphins released during exercise makes it all worthwhile. 

Swimming is another excellent form of exercise that offers a full-body workout. It is particularly beneficial because it is low-impact, making it an ideal choice for people with joint issues or those looking to avoid high-impact activities. Swimming engages multiple muscle groups simultaneously, helping to tone muscles and improve cardiovascular health. A few laps in the pool can burn a significant number of calories and provide a great way to stay cool during the summer. Additionally, swimming can be a relaxing and meditative activity, reducing stress while keeping you fit. Incorporating swimming into your routine a couple of times a week can diversify your exercise regimen and keep things interesting.