We’ve all heard of HIIT and its benefits, but have you heard of low-intensity steady state (LISS) and how important it is? LISS workouts catch people’s attention for one main reason – they think it’s easy. It can be, but ‘steady state’ means doing it for a prolonged period of time. Usually starting from 30 minutes, this workout is said to be as important as high-intensity workouts. Walking, jogging, swimming, cycling (slowly, not a spin class) and hiking are some good examples of LISS. LISS keeps the heart rate steadyThis form of exercise still pumps your heart, but keeps it below 150 per cent of your maximum heart rate. Subtract your age from 220 to estimate your maximum heart rate, or invest in a fitness tracker to help you keep count. (Also read: 10 Stylish Fitness Trackers For Women) It’s easy (on your joints) If you have weak joints and worn knee cartilage, your choice of workout is crucial. As LISS is done slow and steady, there is less impact on your joints. You can mix it up with low-impact HIIT exercises too. (Also read: 6 Easy Ways To Take Care Of Your Joints As You Age) It’s perfect for recovering from an intense workoutLISS puts you in an active recovery phase on your rest day. As your body continues to move after a day of high-intensity exercises, you get to reduce stiffness without over-exercising the rest of your body. LISS keeps you disciplinedStudies have shown that sticking with a high-intensity plan has a lower success rate compared to plans with lower intensity. This is due to fatigue that happens when people throw themselves straight into a daily workout plan, risking overtraining. Looking at a schedule with tough workouts all the time can also feel pressurising. LISS makes it easier for most people to stick to an active lifestyle.