Exercise

6 Great Ways to Get Your Cardio On

January 7, 2010
By Bryant Stowe

So winter spring, summer or fall anytime is the best time to get off your horse and get some cardio going. Summer time is by far the best time to get your cardio on outside because you can take in some sun, some fresh air maybe get a tan and burn some calories too. I did some charity work for two years and walked around 10 miles every day – gained 10 lbs per year. Why? Because your body can adapt really quick to your cardio routine, so mixing it up is key if you want to keep your body adjusting.

1. Running Stairs –

You can find suitable running stairs just about anywhere you live. Just head to the local school or government building with a steep incline and you’ll find plenty. It’s a lot more interesting running the stairs than staring out the gym window on a stair master.

2. Rollerblading –

Rollerblading when done properly is another great exercise that can strengthen quads and is the same as running in terms of calories burned. Just make sure your legs are moving in a pumping motion and that you’re not just strolling with your momentum.

3. Uphill Sprinting –

Uphill sprinting may seem like a daunting task at first but it’s not as hard as it sounds. Choose a distance you want to sprint and find a hill that is about the same length. If you have trouble finding a longer hill, choose a shorter one and then just vary your intensity.

4. Swimming –

Take advantage of the summer heat by heading to the local pool whether during the day or at night. Swimming is an all over body workout so your cardio routine will be more effective because you are working more muscles. Aim to swim about 15 minutes adding 5 minutes each time you go until you are swimming more than 40 minutes a day.

5. Beach Running –

If you can’t find a large hill to run than beach running may be an alternative. Because the sand provides so much resistance to your feet the cardio benefits can be amazing.

6. Hiking –

If running or heavy cardio isn’t your thing consider hiking. It’s a great way to get out of the house and take in some great views. At the same time given the uneven terrain it will be a great cardio routine.

None of these things will give you a solid replacement for working hard and you can obtain the results on anything from a treadmill to an elliptical machine, but outside workouts can be more entertaining.

Bryant Stowe is a freelance writer who specializes in personal fitness and has helped many in his community burn fat with an Elliptical Machine.

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