Easy at Home Cardio Exercises

Easy at Home Cardio Exercises
Photo Credit stairs image by Dmitry Nikolaev from Fotolia.com

You might have a list of reasons for not doing your cardio workouts each week. Maybe you don't want to join a gym, or you don't want to try to fit a treadmill into your house. However, there are easy cardio exercises that you can do at home, and you don't have to invest in any expensive equipment.

Jumping Rope

Jumping rope is a good at-home exercise because it only requires a jump rope and a little space in your house. In addition, you can mix up your routine so it doesn't get boring. For example, you can jump the rope with both feet at the same time or alternate feet. A more advanced technique is to cross your arms as you jump the rope. Try to jump rope for at least 10 minutes to work your cardiovascular system.

Jumping Jacks

Jumping jacks are a traditional cardio exercise that can easily be done at home. Begin this exercise standing with your feet together and your hands at your sides. Jump up and spread your legs out to about shoulder width apart. Bring your hands up above your head at the same time. You can add variety to this exercise by alternating punches out in front of you instead of bringing your hands up. Do at least 50 jumping jacks during your exercise routine.

Mountain Climbers

Mountain climbers are a good workout for your cardiovascular system and the upper body. You begin mountain climbers on the floor in a push-up position. Before beginning the exercise, bend your right knee and move your right foot forward on the floor. Jump up and switch your legs so that your left leg is bent and your right leg is straight. Continue to alternate your legs. You should bring your knees under your torso as you perform the mountain climbers. Try to do this exercise for at least one minute.

Step-Ups

Steps-ups give you a cardiovascular workout while working your leg muscles. To perform this exercise, you just need something to step up onto during the workout. You could use the bottom step of your stairway or a bench. Step up with your right foot and then up with your left foot. Then, step down with your right foot and follow with your left foot. Continue this routine for at least five minutes.

Running in Place

If you don't own a treadmill, you can simply run in place in your house. Try to run in place for at least 20 minutes to get a cardio workout. Make sure that you wear some comfortable running shoes, and don't try to run in place every day. Running can be rough on your ankles and knees, so you don't want to overdo it.

References

Article reviewed by JoeM Last updated on: May 28, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments