I confess: I used to loathe cardio. But a few years ago, I discovered it doesn't have to be a chore, and in fact, it can even be - gasp! - fun. So whether you're looking for a new cardio exercise to help you lose weight, stay fit, or just have more energy, here are the best cardios for weight loss, fitness, and energy (see what I did there)?
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1. Trail Running
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Source: Bff's
So it doesn't look like much - running on a trail - but even without much of an elevation change, trail running is so much more of a cardio workout than even regular running. OMG!
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2. Elliptical Machine
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Source: Burn More Calories on the
I'm the opposite of coordinated, so I'm afraid to try an elliptical workout - have you tried it? What's it like?
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3. Spinning
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Source: WeHeartIt
Ha ha ha! No! Not THAT kind of spinning! I mean the spin class at the gym.
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4. Bicycling
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Source: Biking!!??
If the new Soul Cycle craze is a bit intense for you, no worries - just hop on your bicycle and ride. It's still an excellent cardio workout!
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Yoga has the power to connect your mind, body, and spirit, creating balance and harmony. To fully immerse yourself in the practice, you'll need a high-quality accessory; the best yoga mats suitable for your specific needs can enhance your yoga journey. Discover options for every yogi, from beginners to professionals.
5. Stand-up Paddleboard
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Source: SUP should be just as
This looks like so much fun! I want to try it!
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6. Stairs (or Stair-Climber)
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Source: Run fast??
Your legs will be SO SORE the next day, but using the Stair Climber at the gym, or better yet, climbing actual stairs, is sure to get your heart thumping.
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7. Dog Walking
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Source: | We Heart It
I don't mean a leisurely stroll around the park - I mean let your big dog pull you through an almost-running half-hour "walk."
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8. Jump Rope
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Source: Jump rope- best cardio ever
It's not just for kiddies on the playground - jumping rope is a great cardio workout!
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9. Swimming
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Source: | We Heart It
If your joints can't handle a weight-bearing workout (like running), then swimming is for you. It's still a killer cardio workout, but it's gentler on your joints.
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10. Skating
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Source: | We Heart It
If you're skating on pavement or ice, chances are, your heart's pounding. See? Cardio! You got your workout for the day.
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11. Jumping Jacks
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Source: img2.timeinc.net
Do 50 of these and tell me your heart's not beating fast. Do 50 of these three times, with a two-minute break in between, and wow! Cardio1
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12. Rowing
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Source: Untitled
You, a kayak or canoe, and two paddles. Boom. Cardio. Done.
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13. Zumba/Dance
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Source: Zumba
There's a reason Zumba is still so popular - it's fun, yes, but it's such a good cardio workout! Not into Zumba? Try any form of dance, from ballet to tap to just plain clubbing.
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14. Trapeze
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Source: | We Heart It
I'm not even kidding. A trapeze workout is insane, for your abs and core, and OMG, for your heart and lungs.
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15. Hiking
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Source: Tumblr
No gentle inclines or slow paces, and hiking can be quite a good cardio workout.
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16. Tennis
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Source: Training
I mean, have you seen the Williams sisters, or Anna Kournikova? Running all over a tennis court is very good cardio.
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17. Volleyball
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Source: Wallpaper
You don't realize til later how much of a cardi workout volleyball can be.
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18. Beach Running
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Source: Summer body
Tip: run in the wet part of the sand; it's much easier, and you won't get as much sand in your shoes.
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19. Trampoline
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Source: meh
Again, it doesn't seem like bouncing on a trampoline could be a good workout, but it is! And as you might expect, it's loads of fun!
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20. Basketball
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Source: Untitled
Whether you play on a team or just shoot hoops with friends in the park, basketball is an incredibly good workout - especially for your heart!
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21. CrossFit
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Source: Crossfit
All of our friends who do CrossFit have already told us how intense it can be. No further explanation required. *wink
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2015-05-10T00:11:08.626Z