Cardio, we all know we should be including this into our fitness program but not everyone enjoys it, and when an exercise component isn’t enjoyable it tends to get slightly neglected, either by sessions being shortened or missed entirely. Cardio workouts don’t always have to be all about running or using the cardio machines at the gym (elliptical, step machine, rowing, cross trainer, cycling etc). There are alternative ways to exercise that can get the heart pumping and lungs working and be just as effective. High intensity interval training is a great way to fit your cardio into your demanding schedule and give a bit of a variety to your workouts.
Don’t get me wrong though, this doesn’t mean you can replace those other exercises mentioned entirely, they still form a very important part of a training program. Remember there is no one size fits all, what you want to achieve (i.e. your goals) is what will determine your training program but variety will also help you prevent boredom and plateau.
Now that it is getting warmer and summer is just around the corner, why not take advantage of the good weather and get outside for a workout. This workout consists of 5 exercises, whilst being timed, so there should be enough variety and challenge to keep you busy and before you know it your time working on your cardio will be done. So, if you find running a little tedious and fancy trying something a little more varied why not give this workout a try? You never know, you might enjoy it.
Time to Jump Start Your Cardio
A workout to help fit your cardio fitness into your busy schedule, and without a gym machine in sight!
Warm Up
60 Seconds each warm up exercise.
High Knees - Sets: 1 Reps: 60 seconds
Jumping Jacks - Sets: 1 Reps: 60 seconds
Workout
Set timer for 50 seconds activity and 10 seconds rest. Each exercise lasts 50 seconds. Do as many reps as you can in that time.
Completing all exercises equals 1 round. Aim to do as many rounds as you can. Max of 4 rounds.
Mountain Climbers - Sets: 1 Reps: 50 secs
Burpees - Sets: 1 Reps: 50 secs
Jump Rope - Sets: 1 Reps: 50 secs
High Knees - Sets: 1 Reps: 50 secs
Side Running - Sets: 1 Reps: 50 secs
Cool Down
Your usual cool down and stretching routine.
Notes
Disclaimer
Workouts should be enjoyable, find something you enjoy and you are more likely to stick with it.
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