Exercises that are as Good as Running

Amy Taylor October 07, 2015

Physical activity has a great role to play when it comes to weight loss. Fortunately, it comes in so many forms and one of the best is running. With this exercise, you don’t need expensive gym equipment. All you need is a good pair of quality running shoes. But it’s not every day that you find the time and opportunity to go out and run. Think about the rainy or snowy weather. Think about work overtimes and personal errands too.

But don’t frown. There are actually great exercises that are as good as running. And the best part is - you can do them all just within the comfort of your home.

Mountain Climbers

You’ve been probably doing this workout ever since you were a kid, but have not realised how beneficial it is for your body. Mountain climbers challenge your balance, agility and coordination, and at the same time boost your flexibility, cardiovascular endurance, and blood circulation. What’s great about mountain climbers is that they strengthen the muscles in your arms, core and legs all at the same time.

Burpees

It may be one of your dreaded workout routines, but it’s actually one of the best. Burpees is a full body workout that focuses on your core muscles while increasing your stamina. It strengthens strength, explosive power, and anaerobic endurance. A few minutes of burpees every day can cause a significant improvement on your overall health.

Jump Rope

When it comes to burning calories and increasing stamina, jump rope exercises are among the best there are. This exercise is a great way to amp your heart rate and work out your cardiovascular endurance. As you burn more calories doing skipping rope routines, you also strengthen your upper and lower body.

High Knee Sprints

Doing high knee sprints lets you burn more calories and increase your heart rate in less time than running or jogging. It is an intense workout that really provide great results. Try to do high knee sprints alternatingly throughout your jog or run, but take breaks to slow your pace when you need too. It can be a very explosive workout.

Long Jumps

This workout may take extra determination, but the benefits are worth it. Practising this regularly does not only boost your stamina, but also improve your balance and coordination. To build lower body and core strength, try to do 10-20 long jumps in sets of three.

If running is the only workout you know that has real benefits on weight loss and fitness, think again. There are so many other great exercises that are as good as running. So the next time it rains outside, or you miss your running session, try any of these exercises. They are not only fun, but really challenging as well.