If being stuck on a treadmill or static bike for miles is your only idea of cardio, then Lucy Borrie is out to change that.
The professional dancer and personal trainer recently launched BeBody, a workout method inspired by ’80s aerobics designed to be fun and effective.
It features classic bodyweight strength-training moves set to upbeat music; the faster tempo means you’ll get a cardio workout while testing your muscles.
Below, she's shared three of her favorite low-impact cardio movements you can try at home. They will help you build strength all over and boost your heart health too.
Borrie recommends putting on some fast-paced music and doing the workout in time to embody the BeBody method.
How to do the low-impact cardio workout
Before you jump in, Borrie says you should do two slow repetitions of each exercise to make sure you can execute it comfortably.
“Any movement I do, I always start slow, even if it’s a cardio movement,” she says. “I like to feel the move rather than rush into it, and then pick up the pace.”
Perform this workout as a circuit, doing each exercise for 40 seconds, followed by a 20-second rest. After you’ve done all three exercises, you’ve completed one round. Complete three rounds in total.
1. No-jump burpee
Time: 40sec Rest: 20sec
- Stand with your feet hip-distance apart.
- Squat and bring your hands to the floor.
- Step your feet back, one at a time, so that you're in a high plank position with your body in one straight line. Keep your core engaged and shoulders over your palms.
- Step your feet back in between your hands, one at a time.
- Stand and reach your hands overhead, without jumping.
2. Slow cross-body mountain climber
Time: 40sec Rest: 20sec
- Start in a high plank with your shoulders above your hands and your back flat.
- Slowly drive one knee toward your opposite elbow.
- Hold briefly then return it to the starting position.
- Repeat on the other side and continue alternating.
3. Power lunge
Time: 20sec each side Rest: 20sec
- Stand with your feet hip-width apart, then step one foot back.
- Lower your back knee toward the floor until both knees are at roughly 90° angles.
- Push through your front foot to return to standing.
- As you do, drive your back knee forward and up toward your chest. Drive your opposite hand and elbow to chest height for momentum.
- Complete your repetitions on one side, then switch sides.