By Sophie DeHenzel and Jason DeHenzel
Exercise finishers for people with joint pain
Finishers are a great way to end a workout on a high note. For those who are unfamiliar with the term, a finisher is a series of exercises strung together in a circuit-like fashion and performed at the end of a workout for generally 5-10 minutes. They are intended to keep the heart rate high and keep your metabolism revving, which can aid in fat loss.
Most finishers are high-impact exercises made up of big movements and complex exercises, such as kettlebell swings, deadlifts, snatches, burpees and so on. While these exercises are fantastic when performed with proper form and can be super tough at the end of a workout, they aren’t ideal for people with any type of joint aches or pains.
Below are three joint-friendly finishers that are low impact and easy on the body but still tough, especially when performed in a circuit at the end of the workout. For some of the below finishers, you will need a gym for the proper equipment. Otherwise, they can be performed at home.
Finisher 1
Lateral Mini Band Walks x 10 steps in each direction
Farmer’s Walks for 30 seconds (select dumbbells that become challenging to hold at the :20 mark)
Rest for 20 seconds, repeat for 5-8 rounds
Finisher 2
Battle Rope Waves for 20 seconds
Floor Hip Bridges x 15
Rest for 20 seconds, repeat for 5-8 rounds
Finisher #3
Treadmill Walk – Incline at 8 percent, speed at 3.5-4.0 mph x 1 minute
Plank Hold for 30 seconds
Rest for 20 seconds, repeat for 5-8 rounds
Jason DeHenzel has trained some of New York’s most prestigious clients, including high-profile lawyers, advertising executives, movie producers and musicians. Sophie DeHenzel is a Pn1-certified nutritionist and former downhill ski racer. The pair founded DeHenzel Training Systems to develop customized fitness plans for clients of different abilities, experience and commitment. Find out more at dtsnova.com.
