Fat Burning Options
Cardio. It’s not just walking and aerobics classes anymore!!! People who do regular cardiovascular workouts keep their hearts healthy and their bodies burning fat. Just think outside the treadmill. Fortunately, there are many different activities to create the best cardio workout, no matter our body type, physical activity preference or level of fitness. A few ideas are: 1. Walking, Jogging & Running
These are basically the same, just done at different speeds.. You don’t need any special equipment, other than a decent pair of comfortable shoes, and anyone at any physical level can take full advantage of this type of cardio workout. In addition, you don’t need a special place to walk, jog or run. Explore your neighborhood. Walk inside a local shopping center in inclement weather. If you have access to a gym, use their stationary equipment as well. You’re going to use all major muscle groups simultaneously and reach your target heart rate at the same time.
2. Cycling
Whether you use a 10-speed bike of your own or the stationary bikes in the gym you get can your heart pumping with cycling. And you’re never too old to hop in a bike of either kind! This cardio workout provides the same benefits as walking, jogging or running, but now you can change the terrain and level of difficulty. Many local parks have cycling trails. Listen to music while you peddle away the pounds!
3. Swimming
This cardio activity also hits all the major muscle groups. And best of all, it’s so much fun you won’t even realize you’re working out. Do a couple warm-up lengths at a slower pace, then speed it up for a couple lengths and then slow it back down. Most gyms have indoor pools available if you don’t have access to a community pool or if the weather doesn’t permit outdoor swimming.
4. Dancing
What equipment do you need to dance? Nothing! Even if you have 2 left feet, you can dance and reap the benefits of a cardio work out! You can have a dance party in your own home for a fantastic and fun cardio workout. Dance around to your favorite dance songs or purchase any number of dance workout videos. There are many available on DVD and for the Wii or Xbox. Also, your local gym, community center or dance studio may have offerings for lessons, as well. You can do this alone or even as a family event. Your kids may enjoy dancing, or just enjoy watching you attempt some new moves!
5. Jumping Rope
This will definitely get your body moving and all you need is a jump rope to reap the benefits. Jump fast, slow, straight forward, crossways, double jumps or a combination of it all! You’ll never run out of variety in a jump rope routine. Add music and you’re good to go!
6. Hiking
Like cycling, you get the benefits of walking, jogging and running here with the addition of terrain inclines. If you love the outdoors, check out some local parks and nature trails for different places to explore. The beautiful scenery will clear your mind as you get your heart pumping!
7. Body-weight Exercises
No equipment is needed for these because your resistance is your own body weight. You’ll get the benefits of strength training and cardio all wrapped into one by incorporating lunges, push-ups and squats into your routine.
In Good Health, Craig Chapin