To help keep you going, many health clubs provide televisions, radios and even the Internet for use while running on a treadmill or pedaling on a Lifecycle exercise bike. When weather permits, taking your cardio routine to the great outdoors can provide more variety and help prevent boredom. The scenery and break in routine may help you exercise longer and harder. You do not need to live in the mountains of Colorado or on a beach in California to enjoy outdoor activities - there are tons of terrific cardiovascular options available anywhere.
If you are an avid stationary bike user at the gym, pull your bike out of the garage (put air in the tires if necessary) and find a local bike trail. Dedicated bike trails are great because they are closed to cars and enable you to go far distances in a scenic environment. For an even greater endurance test on your bike, head to a forest preserve trail that is slightly hilly. The hills will challenge you and provide an effective interval workout. You can also do out and backs - bike for a certain distance, note your time and try to improve that time on the way back. No matter what type of bike workout you choose, be sure to wear a helmet and follow the path rules.
Another great cardio exercise is running. The bike paths also are great places to run, as they are safe from traffic, often lined with water fountains, and, if they are hilly, can help build power and speed. To spice up your outdoor runs, find a moderately steep hill with consistent footing and run up it at a steady pace then jog down, rest and repeat. Another twist on your outdoor running routine is to do tempo runs in which you mix minutes of running at a steady pace with seconds of sprinting. Outdoor walking or hiking is another option for an enjoyable outdoor workout.
Swimming develops endurance and upper-body strength. Your health club's pool is great for swimming year round, but can become boring lap after lap. Find a local lake that permits swimming and has lifeguards on duty and take the plunge. Lakes are great for swimming longer distances since you do not constantly have to stop and turn. For safety, never swim alone or without a lifeguard present.
Also consider participating in sports for recreation. Grab a friend and hit the tennis court or head to the beach to play sand volleyball. With both, make an effort to run down every ball to strengthen leg muscles and build endurance. In winter months, instead of being bothered by the snow and ice, take advantage. Those paths that you bike and run on often are converted into cross-country skiing trails in the winter months, and many local park districts offer ice skating rinks.
Although outdoor cardio activities are not intended to completely replace your health club workout, they are fantastic for adding variety, challenging yourself and most importantly - they're fun!
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