With gyms bursting at the seams during the first few weeks of the New Year, it can be tough to get a spot on a treadmill or elliptical.
Before you give up and let the Resolutioners have all the calorie-burning fun, direct your gaze toward some lesser-used fitness equipment. Here’s how you can beat the crowds and mix up your routine!
Rower
The rowing machine in the corner deserves a lot more love and actually started getting attention this past year. The smooth pulling motion not only works your arms and back, but your legs, hips, glutes, and core at the same time. Plus, your heart rate will quickly elevate for a killer low-impact cardiovascular burn.
Try: Time yourself for a 500-meter row. Then, hit the dumbbells for 15-minutes of strength work and finish your workout by rowing 500 more meters with the goal of besting your first time.
Stationary Bike
If you normally spin in a group fitness class, time to try a solo stationary bike session. Trust us, your legs and glutes will still feel the burn and calories will still be blasted even if you aren’t in the cycle studio.
Try: Set the clock for 30 minutes. Go easy for one minute, medium for two minutes, and sprint for one minute. Repeat until the time is up.
FlexStrider
Looking for a total-body, low-impact workout but your favorite elliptical near the TV is taken? Head to a FlexStrider. Unlike the traditional elliptical, the FlexStrider allows you to change your stride length on the fly, which translates into a smoother and more natural running motion.
Try: Use the Lifescape Interactive Course on the console to go on a run through various locales thoughout the world.
DIY Cardio
When the cardio machines are crowded, head to your gym’s aerobic room or a large, open space for a DIY workout. A step, jump rope, medicine ball, battle ropes, or just your own bodyweight will all provide a heart-pumping workout.
Try: Make your own HIIT routine with six exercises of your choice. Do each exercise for 20 seconds hard and 10 seconds rest, eight times through. That’s a 24-minute, super sweaty, workout!
Source: lifefitness.com/blog. Visit the Life Fitness blog for more health and fitness information.
*Image of “woman“ via Shutterstock
