Spice Up Your Cardio Routine!

For many people, thoughts of exercising on a treadmill or cycling on a stationary bike rank right up there with visits to the dentist in terms enthusiasm. But that's OK! There are endless options for you to get your "cardio" in. Chose a cardiovascular activity that you enjoy doing and you'll exercise longer, have more fun, and be more apt to stick with a program long-term.

Here's a list of cardiovascular activities that can be used to spice up your workout. It's important to note that the impact each exercise has on your cardiovascular system is affected by the intensity and duration of your workout, your conditioning level, and your metabolism.

Aerobics (general)
Aerobics (high impact)
Basketball (game)
Basketball (shooting baskets)
Bicycling (< 10mph)
Bicycling (10 - 20mph)
Bicycling (> 20mph)
Boxing (punching bag)
Boxing (sparring)
Dancing
Football/Baseball (playing catch)
Football (game)
Frisbee
Golf (general)
Gymnastics (general)
Hiking
Hockey (field or ice)
Jumping Rope (general)
Jumping Rope (fast)
Kayaking
Mowing Lawn (push mower)
Racquetball (casual)
Racquetball (competitive)
Rock Climbing (ascending rock)
Running (8 min mile)
Running (10 min mile)
Running (12 min mile)
Shoveling Snow (by hand)
Soccer (general game)
Soccer (competitive)
Baseball or Softball (game)
Stair Climbing
Swimming Laps (moderate effort)
Swimming Laps (vigorous effort)
Tennis (general)
Volleyball (noncompetitive)
Volleyball (competitive)
Walking (2mph)
Walking (3mph)
Walking (4mph)
Weight Lifting (vigorous effort)

A general rule of mine with exercise is "If you're not breaking a sweat, you're not working hard enough!" So get out there, have some fun, and get sweaty!