Tired of the same old cardio routine? There are plenty of ways to get in a good cardio workout besides running on the treadmill or elliptical. Here are five alternative cardio exercises that will get your heart pumping!
You know that aerobic exercise belongs in your routine, but you may loathe the very thought of spending another 30 minutes on the treadmill or elliptical. However, if running is not your thing, there are plenty of alternatives to increase your heart rate and burn calories. Just find something you enjoy and then you won’t even think about the exertion!
5 Fun Alternative Cardio Exercises
1. Swimming
Swimming for exercise targets almost all of the central muscle groups, and it’s a great way to burn calories. It’ll get your heart rate up without putting stress on your joints. One of the best advantages of swimming is that you jump right in (no pun intended) at any age and continue it for a lifetime! There are many advantages to learning every stroke, as each focus on different muscles.
2. Rowing
Using the rowing machine strengthens your arms, back, legs, and core. Many people don’t think of rowing as a cardio activity, but it certainly can be. If you increase your rowing cadence or push yourself to all-out sprints, you’ll surely get your heart rate going.
3. Zumba
Zumba turns dance into a fast-paced aerobic workout! Zumba fuses Latin and International music/dance themes that create a fun and dynamic class. The routines utilize interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body, and, of course, raise your heart rate so you can burn calories!
4. Cycling
Indoor cycling is another fun alternative to running on the treadmill. Whether you take a solo ride or join in a group spin class, the best thing about indoor cycling is that you create your own ride. It’s a challenge by choice. If you want to strengthen your legs and get a really good cardio workout, you can ride for speed or increase the resistance and tackle those hill climbs!
5. Power Yoga
Power yoga is a progressive form of yoga taught with an athletic approach, holding poses longer and adding inversions that include balance and core strengthening exercises. Power yoga will strengthen and define each and every muscle in your body using dynamic flowing asanas. If you’re experienced and want a challenge, power yoga will surely increase your heart rate and improve your fitness!
