Holistically_Coded

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Why I Swapped HIIT for Low-Impact Training

There was a time I was doing all the intense workouts—like hour-long HIIT and cardio. But instead of feeling amazing like I thought I would, I was bloated, stressed, and low-key losing it. Turns out, when your hormones are out of whack and you’re running on anxiety, long, intense workouts can actually up your stress levels. Cortisol spikes, and next thing you know, your body’s holding onto fat. So now, I keep my workouts to around 30 minutes and focus on low-intensity resistance training (Pilates, free weights, yoga) & pair that with 10,000 steps throughout the day to feel good, reduce stress, and still get amazing results without the burnout. ✨

Side note: The occasional high intensity workout during my follicular and ovulatory phase—when cortisol levels are naturally lower and since I’ve balanced my hormones—is fine, but I’ve found that sticking to low-impact cardio and resistance training works best for me.

#pilates #hormonehealth #resistancetraining #lowimpactworkout #fyp

2025/3/18 Edited to

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has gained immense popularity for its effectiveness in burning calories quickly. However, not everyone reacts positively to extreme workouts. This article explores the shift towards low-impact training, emphasizing its advantages for mental and physical well-being. Many individuals, especially those dealing with hormonal imbalances or stress, find that longer, intense workouts can exacerbate their conditions, leading to fatigue and weight gain. Low-impact exercises, such as Pilates and yoga, promote better recovery, manage cortisol levels, and improve overall wellness. Engaging in 30 minutes of resistance training coupled with 10,000 daily steps has proven beneficial in creating a sustainable fitness regimen. Not only does this approach yield results, but it also fosters a positive relationship with exercise. For many, implementing such changes can facilitate a healthier lifestyle and enhance fitness experience, especially when dealing with stress and modest fitness goals. With a focus on balance and moderation, individuals are encouraged to listen to their body's needs and adjust workouts accordingly.

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