Can You Do a Good Cardio Routine At Home?
A cardiovascular fitness program is quite important to overall good health as well as weight loss and weight maintenance. Many people skip this form of exercise, or do not get as much as is needed, because they believe it is too difficult and takes up too much time. People also are often under the misconception that cardio can only be done in a gym. The truth is you can get a great cardio workout, in just minutes per day, right in the comfort of your own home!
Just as with other forms of exercise, it recommended that you design a “circuit style” cardio workout that takes your body through a series of different activities. This is great for your heart, and works many different areas of the body. The key to remember is that you should perform each exercise for two to three solid minutes, with little or no rest between the different exercises. Some of the best cardio options are as follows:
Step Aerobics: Invest in a step box, or even use your own stairs in your home. Begin by completing as many steps up and down as you possibly can for two to three minutes. As you progress, gradually build your speed to increase your number. Move your arms as you go to really get your heart pumping.
Side Lunges: Begin by standing with your legs wide and your arms straight out to the side, yet parallel to the floor. Bend your right knee into a side lunge position and bring your left arm down toward your foot. Repeat the process on your other side, lunging side to side each time. The faster you do this, and the lower your lunge each time, the more intense your workout will be. Repeat this process for two to three minutes.
Kicks: Standing with your feet together, bring your right knee up and extend your leg out front to make a kick, but do not lock your knee. For more impact, lower your body down into a squat with your knees behind your toes and then kick out with your left leg. Repeat the rhythm of right kick, squat, left kick, squat for two to three minutes.
Knee Lifts: You will need a light weight medicine ball or a set of light dumbbells for this exercise. Begin by holding the ball or weights straight over your head. Lift your right knee up to about waist level. Bring your arms down to just touch the weight or ball to your knee. Repeat with your left knee. Alternate the process for two to three minutes.
If you find you cannot complete any of these exercises for the full two to three minutes that is perfectly acceptable. It is important to start off at a comfortable pace and build upon your progress.
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