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Cardio for People who Hate Cardio (or don't know where to start)

Cardio isn’t the easiest thing to consistently excel in. Many of us don’t really know how to properly run, or we’re just bad at it (I’m included in this “us”). But cardio doesn’t have to be something you dread doing. It can take many different forms and can honestly be really fun. Join me as I share some ways to get your heart rate up that aren’t just boring old running. 


Not Every Cardio Exercise Has To Be A Marathon

If you do want to run, and are just getting into doing cardio regularly, it’s not going to be easy to jump right into running multiple miles a day. It’s important that you start slow and encourage yourself to get better each time you go out. 

  • Start with smaller, more feasible distances and work your way up to one mile, two miles, and so forth. 

  • Warm up each run with a 5-10 minute warm-up walk. This will get your blood pumping and prevent your muscles from being too sore the next morning. 

  • Take your run in intervals, running for a minute or two and walking for a minute or two. This will prevent you from getting too tired early in your exercise. 



People on treadmills


Running Isn't The Only Option

Some people assume running on the treadmill is the only way to get a good cardio workout in. Here at The Rec, there are so many more options. 

  • Rowing Machine

  • Stair Climber

  • Track

  • Basketball Courts

  • Group Fitness

These movements are cardio in disguise and are great ways to get your blood flowing and your heart pumping. 



Pair of rowing machines


Make Cardio Fun

If you just run for hours on the treadmill staring at the minutes count up, it’s going to feel draining. There are several ways you can make it a little more entertaining for yourself, which can, in turn, make it much easier to go much farther. 

  • Listening to your favorite songs or podcasts can take your mind off the fact that you are tired or out of breath. Curate a playlist that motivates you to go the extra mile (literally). 

  • Watch that TV show you’ve been putting off for months or the movie that your friend recommended. 

  • Find a friend to do your cardio with. Make it a race between the two of you to push yourself to move a little longer. 

  • Reward yourself after cardio. Go into it excited for that coffee you’re going to grab when you’re done. It might just make you run faster. 



Basketball court


Create A Routine That Doesn't Feel Like A Chore

Putting all these tips together, create a routine for yourself that you don’t dread doing every time. It can be nearly impossible to stick to a routine that feels draining and doesn’t get you excited to move. Sit down with a friend and decide what the best way is for you to get your cardio in. 


Cardio shouldn’t feel like a punishment. Let it be rewarding, energizing, and sustainable. 


Be Well, Auburn.


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