Cardio is more than just running

If you want to lose weight or improve your endurance, cardio is perfect for you. Cardio refers to training your heart and lungs. This is the opposite of strength training, which focuses on strenuous exercises. People often wrongly associate it only with running on a treadmill . However, it's much more than that. Below is a list of cardio exercises you can incorporate into your fitness routine, whether you work out at home, at the gym, or outdoors.

Skipping rope

Jumping rope isn't just for the schoolyard anymore. Did you know it's very popular among martial artists? This is done as a warm-up. It's ideal because you don't need any experience to jump rope. Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your fitness or an advanced athlete, jumping rope offers some variety to your routine. Plus, ten minutes is equivalent to 30 minutes of running. Don't feel like running this time? Then jump rope for ten minutes!

Go dancing

A few years ago, the game Just Dance was released. As the name suggests, you dance to classic, and mostly cheesy, songs. The game was quickly discovered and played extensively. It was essentially a disguised workout, giving people plenty of exercise without even realizing it. We're seeing dancing become more popular, especially in fitness. Just look at the Latin American Zumba, for example. In any case, dancing is and remains a fun change of pace for anyone's fitness routine.

Go for a bike ride

These days, we spend a lot of time on the couch or at a desk, whether we realize it or not. Just look at how much time you spend in the car or on public transportation. Are you lucky enough to live closer to work? Then consider cycling to work! Cycling trains your lower body and you can say you never skipped leg day.

Hula hoop your fit

Another schoolyard activity that turned out to be healthier than we realized at the time. Hula hooping is a great full-body workout that burns fat and calories. It can be a fun change of pace, especially when combined with music!

Swimming is fun and healthy

If you're looking at the options and wondering, "Is this really for me?" Don't worry, you can always choose swimming. Swimming is a great cardio workout that's easy on your joints. Swimming trains your entire body, but depending on your technique, the focus is on different muscles. Breaststroke works your back and thighs. Backstroke primarily works your glutes and upper body. If you work a lot at a desk, backstroke is ideal for relieving tension in your neck.

Last but not least is the front crawl. As the name suggests, the front crawl works the chest. However, it's not just the chest; it also works your shoulders, abs, hips, and legs. In short, a great workout.

But how long do you actually need to swim to see results? The recommendation is three 30-minute endurance sessions. This doesn't have to be just swimming! You can also alternate with other workouts.

In short, there are plenty of ways to incorporate cardio into your fitness routine. Where do you start?