I’ve really been trying to up my cardio game here lately. I actually used to be a cardio queen, but lately I’ve been so focused on building muscle that my cardio has kind of been on the back burner. For some reason, my body has a really hard time building and keeping muscle. Meanwhile, my sister (same parents) rarely works out and is super buff. WHY? Nobody knows. Thanks, genes! 😉
While I’m proud to say that I’ve been killing the Equipment-Free 30-Minute Total Body Workout and the Beach-Ready Total-Body Workout (I like to mix these throughout the week), rainy days and working late into the evenings has had me choosing Strawberry Chia Seed Popsicles over getting out and getting my heart rate up.
And anyway, while other states might still have some spring left to enjoy, we’re already in full summer heat down here in Texas! Sorry running, but seeing as I’m not an early-morning-before-the-hot-sun-comes-out type of person, At-Home Cardio Workout it is! 😉 Anyone with me???
>> Cardio Faves <<
Tip: Make this workout a million times more fun by doing it with a friend! And as always, be sure to let me know what you think of the workout by tagging #JarOfLemons or sending me a snap (👻: jaroflemons)!
>> CLICK PHOTO TO DOWNLOAD PRINTABLE <<
1. Jumping Jacks
Jump from a standing position to a wide-leg position, raising arms overhead through the jump.
2. Mountain Climbers
Starting in plank, bring right leg into chest. Repeat on the other leg, alternating sides.
3. Side Lunge Jumps
Jump into a right leg lunge, deepening the lunge upon landing and ensuring the knee never goes over the toes. Repeat on left side, alternating.
4. Burpees
Starting in plank, jump legs towards the chest into a frog position. From there, use legs to jump straight up. Go back into frog, and jump legs back out to plank.
5. High Knees
Alternating sides, bring knees towards the chest while jogging in place.
6. Squat Jumps
Starting in a low squat, jump straight up (raising the arms), and return to starting position.
7. Toe Touches
Starting in a reverse tabletop position, reach one arm up and touch the opposite toe. Alternate sides.
8. Butt Kicks
While jogging in place, bring heel as close to the glute as possible.
Disclaimer: It is important that you consult your doctor before starting new fitness regimes. By doing this workout, you are participating at your own risk. Modify the workout to fit your body’s needs and remember to listen to your body!
Vanessa says:
2-3 times a week? A day?
Christine McMichael replied:
You can complete the routine 2-3 times a session. I recommend doing the workout a few times a week! Let me know if you have any other questions, Vanessa!
chloe | boxwood avenue says:
Burpees are one of my favorite total body workouts – I am going to use some of these in my routine!
Christine McMichael replied:
Really? That’s so awesome, Chloe! I’m not gonna lie….they are my least fave haha. But they bring RESULTS, that’s for sure! Enjoy the workouts!
Brittany says:
This is GREAT for those days that I just want to go home after work, but still want a work out. Thanks!
Christine McMichael replied:
Yes! It’s tough to motivate yourself on those types of days, so hopefully this helps solve (at least a little bit) of that problem. Enjoy the workout!
Charlotte says:
I’m also all about working out at home! Thanks for sharing these exercises 😉
Christine McMichael replied:
Yes! It’s just easier than trying to go to a gym or when the weather is bad sometimes. Of course, Charlotte! Enjoy!
The Gifted Gabber says:
Being honest – I absolutely despise cardio. But I know it’s a necessary evil. 🙂 I actually don’t mind some of the ideas you suggest here though. I hate going to a gym so I will be trying out some of these moves at home tonight! — Amy @ http://thegiftedgabber.com
Christine McMichael replied:
Haha, love your honestly, Amy! I KNOW what you mean. Sometimes I love cardio, but often I have to force myself to do it. I definitely think it’s great to have an at-home option! Let me know what you think of the workout!
Nellwyn says:
This looks great! I definitely need to learn some simple workouts like these that I can do at home.
Nellwyn | http://www.thecardinalpress.com
Christine McMichael replied:
Thanks, Nellwyn! Enjoy the workout! 🙂
Melanie says:
I’ve been slacking on my workout so I needed this to get me motivated again. thanks for sharing 🙂
Christine McMichael replied:
Haha I feel ya, Melanie! It happened. Perfect, glad it motivated you! Of course, friend!
Yael - Mix Savvy says:
With a toddler, its so hard to get out and exercise. .. this looks perfect!
Christine @ The (mostly) Simple Life says:
I do my cardio at home too. Burpees kick my butt every time!
Taria Shondell Faison says:
Thank you so much for these exercises! And for making them so that we can print them out!
Ifeoluwa says:
I need to work on this! I’ve been slacking on my fitness. You look great.
http://www.ifesstyleroom.com
Christine McMichael replied:
Haha, I think we all have a season where we take breaks from working. It’s ok! Let me know if you do the workout 🙂 Thank you so much!
[email protected] a Dash of Cinnamon says:
I am all about home workouts!
Christine McMichael replied:
Me too! 🙂 SO much easier than going to the gym for me!