low-impact

adjective

low-im·​pact ˈlō-ˈim-ˌpakt 

sports

: relating to or involving a physical activity (such as walking, swimming, or bicycling) in which the body makes gentle contact or no contact with the ground

low-impact exercise

low-impact workouts

Testers were impressed by its compression but it's a low-impact bra, so save it for yoga, Pilates and hiking—any workouts where you don't need much support.

—Hannah Mendelsohn and Isabella Silvers

compare high-impact

Examples of low-impact in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Many excursions from these vessels also revolve around low-impact, local experiences such as activities with Sámi communities, hiking and fishing, rather than mass excursions. — Indrabati Lahiri, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

According to an article from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, some of the best exercises for lymphatic flow are low-impact cardio and stretching. — Mélanie Defouilloy, Vogue, 6 July 2026

Rucking is having a moment among men over 40 who want a low-impact way to combine cardio and strength training. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2026

Rucking, the practice of walking a set distance while carrying a weighted pack on your back, has surged in popularity as men over 40 look for low-impact ways to fight muscle loss, protect bone density and burn far more calories than a regular walk. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above