A Different But Fun Way For Cardio

With the weather outside being as nice it's a great idea to take advantage of it by doing cardio outside like hiking, biking, outdoor swimming etc. I however have a different type of cardio that passes time quickly and works very well.

First off, you need a medicine ball and lots of open space like a sports field or your backyard if it's large enough. The ball doesn't have to be heavy. A three pounder would work well for some to begin with. Remember, this is for cardio more than strength.

Now to perform this cardio, all you have to do is throw the ball and jog to it right after you throw it and repeat for whatever your time goal is. You could also walk to the ball if the jogging is too intense. I would wear a watch to keep track of time.

Now for the throwing part, there are many different throwing techniques to use which help keep this exercise from being boring.

Overhead Squat Throw- Holding the ball with both hands in front of you, squat down with your arms straight and explode up starting with your legs and toss the ball over your head.

Overhead Extension Throw-Start with your hands holding the ball over your head. Keeping your upper arms from moving, bend your elbows so the ball should be behind your head and extend your arms and release the ball.

Chest Pass Throw-Hold the ball with both hands lined up with the middle of your chest. The ball should be touching your chest at the starting position and with both hands, throw the ball straight forward.

Angled Chest Pass- Hold the ball with both hands lined up with the middle of your chest. The ball should be touching your chest at the starting position and with both hands, throw the ball up on an angle. Imagine you are trying to throw it over a wall that is a foot or two taller than you.

One Arm Press Throw-Pick the ball up with both arms and decide which arm you want to throw with first. Grab the ball with the side you choose to throw with first and start with the ball beside your head with your elbow bent at a 90 degree angle. Push the ball up in the air then repeat with the other side.

Be sure to take your time while performing these throws and keep your core area tight. And if it's hot outside, be sure to stay well hydrated. Hope it's makes cardio fun for you if it's not already. Enjoy the summer.