Putting Some Fun Into Your Exercise

Exercise can get boring if we do the same thing over and over. Not only do our minds get bored, but our body's use less energy when it gets used to the same activity day after day. That is why cross training is the best way to stay in shape. (see blog on cross training)

I have written about running, biking, swimming, hiking, aerobics, and walking, but there are many more ways to do cardio and get fit.

Jumping rope is a fabulous exercise to add to your fitness regime. There are many ways to jump rope, and it is advised to do foot changes while jumping rope to avoid certain muscle fatigue. This exercise takes practice to keep the rope going for a five to ten minute period of time, but that is the goal.

You can burn 600 to 1000 calories in an hour of rope jumping. Your calves, legs, and arms will get an intense workout during this exercise. It is best to not jump on a concrete surface if at all possible. A wood floor, or rubber mat is a better choice to avoid shin splints or knee issues. You will see the fat melt off of you if you jump rope a few days a week.


Do you love to jump on a trampoline? It is also an effective way to do cardio and burn some calories. A large trampoline is great fun, or try the mini tramps that are small and much more convenient if you are concerned with space. Mini tramps are also less expensive than the large ones.



There are lots of benefits to jumping on a trampoline. This exercise will strengthen your heart, increase your oxygen, stimulate your lymphs, improves balance, tone and define muscle, and increases your metabolism. There are different moves that can be done on a mini tramp, or Rebounder as some are called. Twists, jacks, cross steps, and knee raises, are just some of the moves you can perform on the tramp. You can also add in some small dumbbell exercises to your jumping too....it all adds up to fun!

Inline skating, or Rollerblading is another way to put some fun into exercise. If you loved to skate as a kid, inline skating is for you. You can burn 500 to 1000 calories an hour, depending on your body weight and effort when you skate. If you live by any bike paths or smooth roads, you can skate away your body fat while toning your legs and butt to perfection.


It is important to wear protective gear while skating though. I always recommend wrist guards, and knee pads to avoid injury in a tumble. Some people wear helmets, and that is a good thing to do, especially when you are learning this sport. Always better to be safe, than sorry. You can not avoid having fun, when you are out in the sunshine with friends while skating along. It is a great way to exercise!



So put a little fun into your exercise by adding these three options to your fitness portfolio. You will burn the fat, tone up your body, and have a big smile on your face because of the fun you will be having! Enjoy!



Till Tomorrow,
Queenie