These days, it seems like everyone is into running.
From 5K's to Fun Runs to marathons, running seems to be all the rage. But despite its popularity, there are still some people who just can't get into it.
While running can help maintain a healthy body weight, improve your cardiovascular fitness and strengthen your muscles, there are some people that just don't like it. Running can also be hard on your joints and many people with certain injuries shouldn't do it.
Don't worry, just getting your heart rate up during your workout, no matter what that is, can help you lose weight and increase your stamina.
Here are a few great alternatives to running that are just as productive!
The Elliptical
Whether it's at home or at the gym, the elliptical is a great, low-impact alternative running. The smooth motion is good news for your joints and if you use a medium resistance you can burn as many calories as a 6 mph run. If you want more of a burn, just up the resistance.
Keep in mind that resistance is key to a good elliptical workout. If you’re peddling really fast and your hips are moving freely back and forth, you probably need to turn up the resistance.
Try a high incline and increased resistance for some great toning on top of your cardio burn.
Rowing
The rowing machine is a great cardio workout that also hits your arms, legs, and abs.
If you want a workout that targets triceps, chest muscles, biceps, your back, and your abs, all while getting your heart pumping, rowing could be the workout for you.
Hiking
Don't want to invest in an expensive machine or a gym membership? These next few suggestions are for you.
If you want all the benefits of a good run with the added benefit of getting out and soaking in nature, hiking is the way to go. Choose paths or trails with slight inclines to increase your workout and soak in the scenery!
But be careful on particularly uneven trails...make sure you have the right support when you're hiking tough trails. You don't want to risk a sprained ankle or torn tendon.
Circuit Training
No machines needed. You don't even have to leave the house for this one. The combination of exercises can get your heart pumping and give you a great cardio workout, no running needed.
The right combination of jumping jacks, jump squats, high knees (hey, it's still not running!), and burpees will get your heart racing in no time. Circuit Training is also good for toning.
Walking
If sitting is the new smoking, walking might be the new running. According to a study from the American Heart Association, walking is just as effective as running when it comes to lowering the risk of hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Walking is less impact than running but you will have to walk to the same distance that you would run in order to get the same benefits. But, depending on your goals, walking can be a great way to keep your heart healthy and your joints happy.
Tip: Even when walking, you should make sure you’re using the right form in order to avoid injury or muscle strain.
Dancing
It's time to get your groove back. Richard Simmons showed us all that you could sweat while rocking it out to the oldies but Zumba and other workouts like Barre have shown us that dancing for exercise is here to stay.
There are plenty of dance exercise videos available and Zumba classes to take if your preferred workout is busting a move. Just make sure to really work it for at least 30 minutes!
No matter what type of workout you prefer, make sure you have the right balance of comfort and support so you can keep________ (dancing, walking, running, rowing, hiking, gliding, etc.).
