• Swimming is a low stress exercise that burns calories and builds muscle.Swimming image by Stana from Fotolia.com
  
  Anyone who is just starting an exercise regimen, and especially those who suffer from any condition that requires caution when they work out, should start with low-stress exercises. There are many ways of implementing exercise into a daily routine, and even the low impact methods provide the body with enough exercise to remain fit.
  
  

Walking

• Walking is a low stress exercise that is simple to incorporate into a daily routine. Taking the stairs instead of an elevator, or walking to the store down the street instead of driving are both examples of how easy it can be to get into the practice of walking.
  
  Walking can be tailored to everyone's specific needs. Brisk walking can be an option, while adding a hill or incline on a treadmill may be enough for an extra workout. However, a simple walk at a normal pace is enough exercise for many people, provided they make it a part of their everyday routine.
  
  

Swimming

• Swimming is considered to be low impact, although it uses more muscles than other more strenuous cardio exercises. It is also an effective means of burning calories, and since the body is supported by the water, swimming provides a good workout without stress to any limbs or muscles. Abdominal muscles can be strengthened, and the buoyancy from the water helps to burn calories without feeling the burn of high impact exercises.
  
  

Yoga

• Yoga helps improve balance while building muscle strength.yoga image by Jiang Bin Ping from Fotolia.com
  
  A low impact exercise that has been around for thousands of years, yoga provides many benefits to the mind and body. Yoga improves balance and increases strength and mobility. Yoga works by stretching the body and using the natural resistance of gravity to improve muscle strength. Yoga also helps to lower blood pressure and improve posture, both which benefit overall health.
  
  

Pilates

• Pilates focuses on building core strength, flexibility and endurance. The exercises consist of low repetition stretching and controlled movement while concentrating on breathing. Pilates is a set of low impact exercises which promote muscle strength without adding extra bulk. The Mayo Clinic reports that Pilates can help with weight loss and alleviates low back pain.
  
  The exercises are practiced on the floor, or can be done with many different apparatuses that have been designed especially for Pilates. These exercises are safe for all levels of fitness, and are encouraged by physiotherapists and doctors for those who require less stress in their workouts, according to SportsInjuriesClinic.
  
  

Tai Chi

• Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese practice that uses fluid body movements to strengthen muscle and relieve stress. It can help to improve balance, posture, strength, coordination and flexibility. According to WebMD, Tai Chi can lower blood pressure and improve heart health. Slow, controlled movements relax the body while giving the benefit of an effective workout.