As times passes, I continue working to find creative ways to manage my health and wellness journey with day-to-day life happenings. One thing Iโve been doing lately is figuring out how to integrate getting 8K-10K while handling things at home, work, etc. Iโve discovered some interesting cardio alternatives that fit my situation.
What are Cardio Alternatives?
There doesnโt seem to be a definitive idea of a cardio alternative, which is great because it means there are many ways to get cardiovascular exercise beyond classic exercises like running or jogging. A quick Google search highlighted everything from swimming to dancing to high-intensity calisthenics as great cardio alternatives. But sometimes even these cardio alternatives donโt necessarily work for me. Whether itโs poor planning on my part or a schedule dominated by kids, itโs tough to get those steps in.
Thinking Outside the Box
One thing Iโve tried to do is capitalize on dead time in between errands or kid activities to get my cardio/exercise. For example, when my kid is at sports practice, I sometimes walk laps around the arena or do pushups/dips on the benches. Itโs an easy way to get a quick, intense boost while meeting my family obligations. I sometimes see other parents walking in place or stretching, so itโs not too awkward.
Iโve also learned to track my movement while spending quality times with my kids. For example, I recently took my youngest to an indoor playground and spent most of the time following him around. At some point, I had a realization that I was moving โ a lot! Thankfully, I had my step tracker with me and my phone to capture the memories. I shared a brief clip on my YouTube channel to inspire other care givers to see value in the steps they take with those they look after.
Find Cardio Alternatives That Work for You
At the end of the day, we have to find strategies that work best with our reality. We are gifted with unique bodies, which require specific actions for care and maintenance. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for cardio alternatives, which offers great flexibility for getting those steps in. I liken it to a plate of assorted foods. As a child, I hated mixing my foods, but Iโve come to understand as an adult that it all goes to the same place. So long as you get the steps or cardio you need, youโre good.