If I had my way, cardio would not exist. Long miles on the treadmill, endless minutes on the elliptical, or far too many strides on the bike… None of these activities scream “fun” to me. Shout out to those of you who enjoy cardio. I wish so badly that I could relate!
The only way I can manage to commit to cardio and push through to the end is by performing HIIT circuits. HIIT stands for High Intensity Interval Training- pretty self-explanatory. HIIT combines many different exercises into a circuit, with little rest in between, which keeps the intensity up. Also, many HIIT exercises do not require equipment, which makes these circuits convenient to do at home, outside, or in a hotel room.
Below are a few of my favorite HIIT sessions. Don’t forget to warm up, cool down, & stay hydrated!
Circuit 1 (Full Body):
Warm-up: 100 jumping jacks
30 seconds high knees
10 push ups (modification: knee push ups)
30 second jumping jacks
20 jump squats (modification: standing squats)
Repeat 5-10 times
Circuit 2 (Upper Body):
Warm-up: 100 jumping jacks
10 push ups (modification: knee push ups)
30 second sprint
10 bench dips
30 second plank
Repeat 5-10 times
Circuit 3 (Lower Body):
Warm up: 100 jumping jacks
20 alternating jump lunges (modification: reverse lunges)
20 jump squats
20 alternating side lunges
30 second jumping jacks
Repeat 5-10 times