Does the word cardio make your skin crawl? Do you shudder at the idea of walking in place, staring at a digital screen as it slowly counts away the minutes of your life??

Easy, there, killer. Treadmills aren’t the only way to get that cardio in. Yeah, there are also ellipticals and stair climbers, but let’s look at some less traditional ways to get your heart pumping and your happy endorphins going!

Hiking—This one is our favorite. We are incredibly blessed to live in a beautiful state with access to hiking trails 5 minutes from our house. But if you’re unsure about hiking trails in your area, head to a park or a school track. Or head out the door and start walking down the road! A change of scenery and fresh air could be all you need to get motivated. Bonus idea: bring the pooch with you!

Dancing—I’ll tell you right now, I’m a terrible dancer. I can two-step and half-step pretty well, but my prowess on the dance floor ends right there. BUT if you like to move it, move it, get up and have at it! Take some local classes, find a honky tonk, or just put on some music in your living room and let loose!

Gym Classes—I have a few girlfriends who joined a gym just for all the free classes. Most offer a boatload and many of them offer free passes to try them out before you sign up for a membership. You can do things like Yoga, Cycling, Zumba, Tabata, HIIT, Pilates, Kickboxing, Barre, Muscle and who knows what else! Get there a bit early and chat with the instructor if you’re nervous. Instructors want all their clients to be comfortable and most have no problem explaining or offering personal help during the class.

Swimming—It’s well known that swimming is a fantastic workout. If your backyard or your gym doesn’t have a pool and you’re the aquatic type, check out your local YMCA.

Leagues—there are usually numerous adult softball, kickball and volleyball leagues in the bigger cities. Most meet once or twice a week. They can be SO much fun! Check google to see if there’s a league near you.

See there? Cardio doesn’t have to suck! When you get your heart pumping hard at least 30 minutes per day, you’re enhancing your body’s natural ability to burn fat, oxygenate the blood and strengthen your heart. You’re also helping your metabolism to operate at an optimum rate, and that means ideal calorie burning. And my favorite part? Endorphins. Working out give you a boost of good feelings.

What’s YOUR favorite way to cardio?!