Does cardio day have you feeling a little run down?
Don’t skip it!
Try some different ways of getting your cardiovascular system in shape and ready to keep your heart and lungs healthy.
Row
Rowing is great cardio, and it doesn’t kill your legs because your entire body is getting an energizing workout.
This is a great option for the day after a tough leg circuit!
Take the Stairs!
You can do this every day by walking past the elevator and heading toward the stairwell, or you can jump on a stair stepper machine at the gym.
Either way you’ll get that blood pumping, and tone your booty too!
Bike or Walk to Your Destinations (when possible)
Driving everywhere is not only harmful to the earth, but also to your body.
If you have a short commute, and the weather and traffic safety situations are cooperative, walk or ride your bike to wherever you need to be.
Not only will you get some cardio, you will get fresh air and some bonus outdoor time!
Box Jump
Box jumps are no joke and can be done anywhere that you can safely jump on something.
You’ll want to check that the box you use is a good height and weight, so you can more effectively perform this exercise.
Jumping on a box, or anything stable and supportive, a few times can really get the heart rate going!
Jump Rope
We all loved it as kids, so get a rope and start singing the playground songs as you jump your way into a healthier body!
Extra impressive if you can remember those tricky twist swings from our elementary days.
Kick Box
Kickboxing is an excellent way to ramp up your cardio and release some stress.
Nothing says, “Letting of steam” like kicking and punching a bag as quickly as you can for ten minutes.
Just Dance!
It will be okay!
Whether you are dancing alone, or in a group fitness class, dancing is an exciting and healthy way to avoid the treadmill.
Check out Zumba or U-Move at the Wellness Center, or grab an i-pod and jam out with your roommate between classes.
Lift Weights
Lifting might be for muscle growth, but it is also an awesome way to get cardio in.
Pick up something and put it down a few times, then tell me you aren’t breathing harder.
Just remember, never lift something that is too heavy for you! Start where you can comfortably lift, and work up to those killer dumbells. You’re muscles will thank you!
What cardio do you love to add in to your workout in place of the usual treadmill time? Tweet us @HerCampusWVWC