5 Ways to Get Your Cardio in Without a Gym Membership by Rae Steinbach

[image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/OBbliBNuJlk]

Whether you’re trying to save money or you just don’t want to venture out in the cold this winter, there are plenty of ways you can still exercise in the comfort of your home – and lots of benefits in doing so. You don’t need any big, bulky workout equipment taking up space in your living room either – you just need the motivation to get started. Now, let’s burn some calories! 

Combine these exercises below for a simple workout routine at home:

Cross Jacks – Stand in the same position you would for jumping jacks. Jump and cross your legs in front of one another as you cross your arms above your head. Then, spread your feet and arms apart. Just like you would with a jumping jack. Repeat, crossing the opposite arms and legs. You can also do this exercise with your arms in front of you. 

High Knees – Stand with your feet apart. Lift one knee up toward your chest and pump the opposite arm while making a fist. Land lightly on the balls of your feet. Alternate your knees and elbows at a quick pace. 

Stair Sprints – Using the stairs in your home, sprint up them, one at a time. Slowly walk down for a cool down. Then, sprint up them again. This is a real calorie burner!

Burpee – Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and then squat, placing your hands on the ground in front of you. Jump your feet back, landing on the balls of your feet. Form a straight line with your body, similar to a plank position, parallel to the ground. Then, jump your feet back to where your hands are and stand up, raising your arms above your head. Once you start getting used to this warm-up, you can add a push-up when you are in the plank position. 

Mountain Climbers – Kneel on the floor and place your hands out in front of you shoulder-width apart. Lean forward with your body extended. Then, bring your right thigh to your chest while extending your left leg back with toes pointing down. Alternate and bring your left thigh to your chest while extending your right leg back in the same position. 

For the workout routine above, exercise for 30 seconds to 1 minute and rest for 10 seconds before going onto the next step. After all of the exercises are complete, rest for one minute and then start it again. Increase the number of times the routine is done as you progress in your training.

About the Author:
Rae is a graduate of Tufts University with a combined International Relations and Chinese degree.  After spending time living and working abroad in China, she returned to NYC to pursue her career and continue curating quality content.  Rae is passionate about travel, food, and writing for Taos Footwear.