There are many options you have when it comes to getting in a good cardio workout without even stepping foot inside a gym. We all have those slumps where the gym gets too redundant and boring and sometimes need to switch things up. So forget the treadmill, elliptical, or any other exercise equipment you normally use at a gym.
Below I have compiled a list of 10 alternative ways to exercise without going to the gym.
Table of Contents
#1. Play a sport
There had to have been a time in your life that you played some active sport. Consider picking it up again to get a great cardio workout. Here are a few sports that offer a great cardio workout: Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Kickball, Tennis, Soccer.
#2. Swimming
Swimming laps in a pool is an excellent source of cardio and is great for your muscles. Have you ever noticed that all Olympic swimmers have great bodies?
#3. Ride a bike
Riding a bike is another good way to get a great cardio workout and work out your lower body. Bike rides through your neighbourhood can also be very relaxing.
#4. Rollerblading
Rollerblading can work out your entire body and help you burn calories fast. Consider buying some rollerblades and skating through your neighbourhood on a nice day. If you live by the beach like me, you can even rollerblade down the boardwalk.
#5. Jump Rope
Using a jump rope is a great way to boost your heart rate and get a nice cardio workout.
#6. Hiking
Consider finding local trails and nice places to hike around your city. Bring your dog, a friend, or a family member for a nice day out.
#7. Dancing
If you are a dancer or would like to dance, consider joining a dance class. Dancers have great physiques due to the great cardio workout involved in the art of dance.
#8. Martial Arts
Learning a martial art like karate is a great way to get and stay in shape.
#9. Sex
Yes, that’s right, Sex! Sex has long been known for its great cardiovascular workout. Why not burn some calories doing something that most everyone enjoys?
#10. Nintendo Wii
The Nintendo Wii is a great way to burn a few calories as it involves full-body movement.
The most important thing to do is to pick an activity that you enjoy. We all hit those rough patches in our health and fitness lifestyle where we just don’t want to go to the gym. These alternative ways are meant to allow you to have fun while getting some exercise.
Essentially almost any activity that will bring your heart rate up and cause you to sweat is a great exercise. Keep in mind that to progress in an activity that does indeed raise your heart rate, you need to maintain the activity for at least thirty minutes. The longer, the better!
