Five Amazing Low Impact Cardio Warm-ups to Kindle the Fitness Flame Within You

Don't underestimate the power of this seemingly simple exercise! Marching high knees is an effective low-impact cardio warm-up that gradually increases your heart rate and pumps blood into the muscles you're about to work. During this activity, the key is to keep your abdomen tight and lift your knees high.

Marching high knees not only warm up your leg muscles but also engage your core, providing you with a fuller range of circular motion. This exercise is also good for improving balance, making it a great starting point for a low impact cardio workout.

Additionally, this warm-up has the advantage of working out all three planes of motion, ensuring that all major muscle groups are engaged. By including marching high knees in your warm-up, you're prepping your entire body for the exercise to come.

Embrace the Dynamic Stretching

To maintain joint health and flexibility, dynamic stretching is a must-add in your cardio regimen. Dynamic stretches are active movements of muscle that bring forth a stretch but do not hold in the end position. They are essential to improve mobility, balance and body awareness, prime your nervous system for physical activity, and boost overall athletic performance.

Unlike static stretching, dynamic stretching is not about holding a stretch but rather taking your muscles through full range of motion to increase your flexibility. This technique stimulates blood flow, loosens up the joints and muscles, and helps your body become more responsive for the workout that is ahead.