Aerobic and Cardiovascular Exercise

Walking as a form of cardio is low-impact and comfortable. However, it's also time-consuming, taking about three to four times as long to burn the same amount of calories walking as one would jogging. Walking outside with ankle weights or on a treadmill at a 12 degree incline can make for a more efficient workout while still mitigating discomfort.

Pros: Calorie Burning Rate, Convenience

Cons: Requires Equipment or Walkable Areas

Uphill/Weighted Walking

Stationary Bike/Elliptical

These gym staples are great low-impact cardio options. I personally prefer a recumbent bike since my hands are free and I can use my phone as a distraction. Who ever said smart phones were bad for you?

Pros: Calorie Burning Rate, Simplicity

Cons: Requires Access to Equipment

Yoga

Yoga is an excellent lower-intensity exercise option that can also work to reduce stress and enhance flexibility. 

Pros: Minimal Equipment, Relaxation

Cons: Less Efficient at Burning Calories

Resistance training serves a unique purpose when it comes to fitness due to its unique impact on lean mass and body composition. However, this doesn't mean that other forms of exercise don't provide benefits as well. Multiple interventions involving different types of aerobic and cardiovascular exercise have been shown to positively modulate IBS symptoms. This impact has been observed not only through long-term reduction in body fat and inflammatory adipokines, but in a more immediate sense as well.

Some forms of high-intensity cardio are not particularly feasible during symptomatic episodes. The good news is that a number of lower-intensity activities exist that can reduce exacerbation of and possibly even provide relief for symptoms.