What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you think about a cardio workout? The first image that pops into my mind is a treadmill. If that is also what you thought about, then it kind of makes you feel like we are brainwashed to link running to cardio.

Does this mean that when you think of doing a cardio workout at home that you might not feel like it is effective unless you have a treadmill? This mindset could be the reason why over 60 million people own treadmills.

Sure, treadmills are proven to get your heart rate up, and they are an excellent workout, but there are more effective cardio workouts you can do at home with no equipment.

Jumping is great for a cardio workout at home

You might be able to go running for 30 minutes, but how long can you jump for? If we were to compare running to reading then jumping would be like TV. Meaning you are burning more calories in less time.

Jumping is a tough workout. It’s also going to take some practice if you haven’t done it in a long time so don’t get discouraged. Think about when the last time you had a jump rope was? Maybe back in 6th grade? Well, that toy you played with as a kid can really make for a killer workout.

Even if you don’t have a jump rope lying around you can still get in your cardio fix with jumping jacks. Challenge actually hosts a monthly jumping jack challenge to keep you motivated. The virtual fitness challenge helps you set a goal of completing 3,000 jumps over a period of 30 days.

Kick your way through cardio

Kickboxing is fantastic at home cardio exercise. The best benefit of kickboxing is that it is a total body workout that is designed to get your heart pumping. Cardio kickboxing is sure to get you sweating, and if you are looking to kill a lot of calories in less than 30 minutes, this is the perfect home workout for you.

If you are looking to switch up your routine and give cardio kickboxing a go, I’d recommend starting with this Fitness Blender cardio kickboxing video. It’s a quick 25-minute routine that will completely kick your butt.  If you can’t make it through the entire video have no shame, it’s not easy.

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

High-intensity interval training is designed to cycle your heart rate through various stages for maximum performance. It goes between intense bursts of activity and specific time periods of less-intense activity.

This type of training is highly effective you come to find that you’ve hit a weight loss plateau. This is certainly one that you can do while running if you are that kind of cardio bunny. You can even do it on the treadmill or off the treadmill.

A good example would be to do a brisk walk for 3 minutes, jog for 2 minutes, and sprint for one minute and repeat. These various speeds cause your heart to pump at various beats per minute, making the workout more effective.

That’s a wrap on doing a cardio workout at home

I hope now you are enlightened with new ideas to freshen up your home workout routine. Get out there take action and be healthy. Don’t forget to set goals and stick to them this year to make the most out of what you are looking to accomplish.