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

In addition to enjoying high-octane activities such as hiking, zip-lining, rock climbing, water skiing, and fitness and dance classes, guests can also focus on finding their zen with low-impact pastimes like yoga, wine-and-paint classes or reading by the lake. —Robin Roenker, USA Today, 2 Apr. 2026

Athleta makes high-quality activewear without a steep price tag, and bras like this are perfect for low-impact activities. —Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 1 Apr. 2026

This super-soft, stretchy tank top offers light support, perfect for yoga and other low-impact activities. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 28 Mar. 2026

The whole concept of low-impact cardio exercises may sound like an oxymoron. —Jenny McCoy, SELF, 25 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1985, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for low-impact

• artefact
• artifact
• counteract
• inexact
• interact
• noncontact
• reenact
• subcontract
• abstract
• attacked
• attract
• contact