9 Low-Impact Cardio Classes That Will Still Make You Feel the Burn

From aqua cycling to aqua yoga, water-focused workout classes have become more and more popular in recent years. The best option for a low-impact workout is aqua aerobics, because "the water removes much of the strain on joints that accompanies typical land-based aerobics," says Ashley Reaver, RD, ACE-CPT, a certified personal trainer in Oakland, CA. "There is also added resistance when moving limbs in water, which can help to keep your heart rate in cardio range."

Kickboxing classes provide a great low-impact workout that will make you sweat in no time. "Most of the cardio components of kickboxing come from stepping the feet and swinging the arms [so it's not hard on your joints]," says Reaver. "Kickboxing workouts also build muscle and strength, and can be easily modified to lower the intensity [in case of injury]."

Spin classes are not only great if you are looking to build endurance and lean muscle, but can also give you an intense cardio workout without having to put stress on your joints. "Spinning is a great low-impact cardio option, because it is easy to not only maintain a an increased heart rate, but you can add in sprints and hills, which will simulate a HIIT workout without the added joint stress," says Reaver.

Classes that incorporate rowing machines are great because they work your lower and upper back, and build cardiovascular endurance. "While there aren't many classes that focus strictly on rowing, more and more gyms are incorporating them into circuit-style workouts," says Reaver. "Rowing is a total-body workout that uses large muscle groups, which increases heart rate without taxing the joints."

The popular PiYo Live, part of the Beachbody program, is a workout class that is both low-impact and heart-thumping. "PiYo combines traditional Pilates and yoga techniques into a conditioning workout," says Reaver. "Its low-intensity focus combines activities to increase heart rate, and stabilization positions to strengthen and tone muscles. This is a great workout for someone getting back into exercise after some time off." PiYo is available at many different fitness studios across the country, and is also out on DVD if you prefer to do your workouts at home.

Another great low-impact cardio class option is TRX, a type of workout that utilizes suspension trainers and a person's own bodyweight for a great full-strength and cardio workout. "TRX is a great low-impact option because it can be easily modified to accommodate individual needs," says Reaver. "Simply moving farther away and increasing the angle from the TRX connection can change the intensity of the exercise. It also offers stabilization for activities such as jumping, squatting, and lunging that may otherwise be difficult."