Home Cardio Routine

Looking to get fit fast or maybe shed some pounds? Not sure where to start?

The best way to lose weight and begin a home exercise routine is with cardio.

Many of us think back to our high school days and remember the lessons we learned in gym class, lifting dumbbells and doing pushups. Unfortunately it is all to easy to fall behind to the point where more intense work outs are beyond our capacity.

Not to worry though, you can ease back into fitness with these easy cardio exercises at home. You won’t even need any special equipment.

In this article we will go over two variations, a simple and easy version for people who need a less intense work out and a fun martial arts variation.

Simple version:

Find a nice clear space where you can move in all directions freely for at least a few steps, put on some high energy music and dress in comfortable loose clothing. Start by walking in place to the beat, raise your knees to an exaggerated height.

Now work in you arms, for a beginner you don’t even need any weights. (Later on though you can use improvised items from around your home if you like.) When you raise your right leg flex your left arm and flex as if you are doing a curl with an invisible weight, the added motion will really get your heart rate up regardless of actual weight resistance.

Alternate marching in place with large sweeping steps right and left, just don’t put too much pressure on your joints. (Stretching before hand helps to prevent injury.)

Add a martial arts twist:

Remember those curls we talked about earlier? Replace them with alternating punching motions, slower than a real punch though, with more control to prevent pulling any muscles.

In many a martial art punches begin with your fist closed palm up elbow at a 90 degree angle, upper arm to your side. As you punch you arm should twist slightly ending with your palm downward facing at the end of the extension. Concentrating on the movements can add a challenging dimension to your work out. Throw in some kicks with your side steps for more variety.

A small word of caution, though be careful of your balance when trying out kicks, and be mindful of your joint stability.

Enjoy your new basic cardio workout, good luck and good health.