Sauna people like it intense. People with small saunas always think they need a larger one before they can get intense. We sauna people underestimate low-impact workouts and small saunas. I know I did. Lots of people have access to a small sauna, maybe a two seater or just two small benches. We all have a body that can be moved in low impact ways. Let’s not take for granted either of these things. Enter the low impact do it anywhere workout.
Seated. Do it Seated.
The advantage of seated workouts is that they can be done almost anywhere. You don’t need a gym membership or any fancy equipment to get started. All you need is a comfortable chair and a few simple exercises to get your heart rate up and your muscles working. This makes seated workouts an excellent option for people who don’t have access to a gym or prefer to exercise at home.
Seated low-impact workouts are exercises that are performed while sitting down and are designed to increase your heart rate, improve your cardiovascular health, and strengthen your muscles without putting stress on your joints. These exercises are perfect for people who have limited mobility, are recovering from an injury, or want to add some variety to their workout routine. While seated workouts may not be as intense as high-impact exercises like running or jumping, they can still be just as important for maintaining your overall health and fitness.
One of the most significant benefits of seated low-impact workouts is that they are easy on your joints. If you have arthritis, a previous injury, or any other condition that makes high-impact exercises painful or difficult, seated workouts can provide an excellent alternative. Since these exercises are performed while sitting, they reduce the pressure on your knees, hips, and other joints. This can help reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation, making it easier for you to move and exercise.
Seated workouts can also be customized to meet your specific needs and fitness level. If you’re just getting started with exercise, you can start with simple movements like marching in place or lifting your arms above your head. As you get stronger and more comfortable, you can gradually increase the intensity and complexity of your workouts. This can help you avoid plateaus and continue to see improvements in your strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Seated low-impact workouts can also have a positive impact on your mental health. Exercise is known to release endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that can help improve your mood and reduce stress and anxiety. Seated workouts are no exception. Even though you’re not running or jumping, the physical activity can still provide a sense of accomplishment and improve your overall sense of well-being.
One of the best things about seated workouts is that they can be adapted to meet the needs of people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, there are seated exercises that can challenge you and help you achieve your fitness goals. These workouts can also be adjusted to accommodate any physical limitations you may have, so you can continue to exercise safely and effectively.
Below are some low impact seated moves you can work into your sauna! Anyone, even you with the two seater!
- Seated Leg Extensions: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. Extend one leg straight out in front of you, holding for a few seconds before lowering it back down. Repeat with the other leg.
- Seated Knee Lifts: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. Lift one knee up towards your chest, holding for a few seconds before lowering it back down. Repeat with the other leg.
- Seated Marches: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. Lift one knee up towards your chest, then lower it back down and repeat with the other leg.
- Seated Toe Taps: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. Tap your toes on the floor as quickly as you can for a few seconds, then rest and repeat.
- Seated Arm Raises: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your arms at your sides. Raise both arms straight up above your head, then lower them back down to your sides and repeat.
- Seated Arm Circles: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your arms at your sides. Raise both arms straight out to the sides, then make small circles with your arms in a forward direction, then switch to backwards circles.
- Seated Shoulder Shrugs: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your arms at your sides. Shrug your shoulders up towards your ears, then lower them back down and repeat.
- Seated Side Bends: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your arms at your sides. Lean to one side, reaching your arm down towards the floor, then return to center and repeat on the other side.
- Seated Twists: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your feet flat on the floor. Twist your torso to one side, using your opposite hand to hold onto the chair for support. Return to center and repeat on the other side.
- Seated Abdominal Crunches: Sit on a chair with your back straight and your hands behind your head. Lean back slightly, then bring your knees up towards your chest while crunching forward and bringing your elbows to your knees. Lower back down and repeat.
Remember to go at your own pace and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort. These exercises can be a great way to incorporate movement into your day, even if you’re sitting for long periods of time.
