When you're pregnant, overweight or have just returned to exercising or are new to exercise, then low-impact exercises are what you need. High impact routines are not advisable for those suffering from arthritis, osteoporosis or those with joint or connective tissue injuries. Those who have just recovered from muscle strains and stress fractures are not also ready for such high-impact workouts as running or jogging. Because low-impact activities rarely stress the muscles and joints and still produce the same benefits to cardiovascular stamina and endurance, they are the exercises of choice for those with the above-mentioned conditions. Even when done in moderate amounts, low-impact exercises still reduce your risk of heart disease and other degenerative illnesses.

One of the most popular and easily-performed low-impact activities is walking. Not only is it cheap and convenient, walking is also a fast way to burn calories and get rid of excess fat. Leisurely walking, however, doesn't really get your heart rate up. Pick up the pace with a brisk walk or occasionally walk an incline or at a steeper elevation.

Stretching is another low-impact workout that keeps your muscles and tendons flexible and supple. This is the recommended form of exercise for those suffering from back pains, arthritis or muscle strain as also strengthens the muscles. Golfers who need a wide range of motion in their swings also benefit from stretching exercises. Mobility, especially of the elderly population, is greatly enhanced with flexibility exercises.

Pilates, Yoga and Tai chi are mind-body techniques that utilize a series of postures, poses and breathing to promote fitness. Through concentration and controlled movements, these low-impact exercises promote strength, stability, flexibility and balance. Posture is greatly improved and with these exercises, mood is elevated as well. Aside from the benefits to the body, these exercises also provide mental relaxation to the practitioners as well. These exercises have also been recommended as part of an adjunct treatment for depression and mood-related disorders as well.

If you are comfortable working out in a gym, then choose machines such as cross-country ski machines and rowing machines that don't strain specific joints. These machines offer a great aerobic workout and allow practitioners to perform exercises for muscular fitness.

However, water activities are the most comfortable exercises for those who are looking for a workout that does not put stress on the joints and bones. Since your weight on water is only 1/10 that of your weight on land, swimming and aqua aerobics exercises are not only low-impact, they are virtually zero-impact activities. By swimming a few laps at least three times a week, you gain not only cardiovascular benefits but muscular benefits as well. Aqua aerobics, meanwhile, is aerobics done on waist or chest-high water. The risk of injury is reduced as the water serves a cushion in the unlikely event of a fall. Besides, the water also acts a natural resistance tool and enhances the intensity of an exercise.

These low-impact workout routines are highly recommended for those whose medical conditions do not allow them to do land-based workouts.