A new season is upon us and now is a fantastic time to try some new things. Although some of us are sad to see summer go along with our outdoor sweat sessions, there are still plenty of gains to make and personal records to set. For some, colder temperatures mean simply taking their standard routine inside (and some might not even need to do anything different). Others enjoy mixing it up with the seasons, keeping their fitness regimen exciting with new activities and exercises. If you fall into the latter category or just want to expand your working knowledge of fitness and how various exercises help you reach your goals, you're in luck.
Lace up your running shoes and slip on your gym shorts and get ready to sweat doing any of these six indoor cross training activities.
Conquer an Indoor HIIT Workout
There's no feeling that can quite compare to lacing up your running shoes, heading outside and going on a long-distance run. You can't deny that, but with the weather taking a turn for the chilly and our schedules filling up, you might not have the excitement or time to go on a long outdoor run. That doesn't mean you can't get your cardio fix. Enter high-intensity interval training or HIIT for short.
The concept is relatively simple and if you've ever had to empty the gas tank at the end of a run, you've probably done some form of HIIT-you just might not have known it. Basically, you alternate between high-intensity and low-intensity intervals. Typically, the high-intensity interval is about half as long as the rest interval, but you can adjust this based on your experience or goal. The treadmill is a great tool to use for HIIT workouts since you have your speed and the time right in front of you, taking the guesswork out of it.
Try Your Hand at Basketball
If you're more of a lifter and dread cardio day even though you know it's important, basketball is for you. Basketball might be a game, but it can be a serious workout if you want it to be. If you're not a fan of running just for the sake of running, basketball is a great way to get your heart pumping with the distraction of trying to win.
Whether you're shooting hoops with a few close friends or solo, there isn't any reason you shouldn't leave the court drenched in sweat. Basketball is a true test of one's cardio stamina with high-intensity intervals naturally thrown in as you sprint to the rim in transition. Make sure you have a reliable pair of basketball shoes to help provide stability and grip while you play. After that, all that's left to do is find an indoor court and the weather won't ever postpone your cardio day again.
Pick Up Lap Swimming
Pool-based cardio isn't just for those with injuries or older folks. If you just look at one high-level swimmer, you'll see that there's something to the cardio and physique-boosting benefits of swimming. Getting into indoor lap swimming is also a great way to keep your memories of summer pool days alive too. You're not here for fun and games, though and if you might be surprised at the full-body burner that a lap swim workout can be. Also, if you're trying to lean down a little bit or just burn some extra calories so you can fit in some extra holiday cookies in a few months, you'll love water cardio. Because you're in the water, your body has to work a little harder to keep you warm, helping you burn a few more calories during the workout.
Start Off the Morning with a Virtual Yoga Class
Whatever your primary fitness regimen includes, we could all be a little more flexible and mindful. Yoga has long been the go-to activity for athletes to improve their mobility, balance, endurance and provide a chance to slow down and re-center themselves. Thanks to modern technology, you don't need to go to a yoga studio to enjoy a yoga session and can do it right at home.
There are plenty of virtual yoga courses and individual classes available, some paid and some free. Whichever you choose, start your morning off right or try it out on your next active recovery day.
Try Aquatic Running
While others are lacing up their running shoes and hitting the treadmill, the adventurous are hitting the pool. Besides simply lap swimming, another great aquatic exercise is underwater running. It's essentially all of the benefits of running with the intensity cranked up and the impact turned way down. Compared to standard running, water is much denser than air, making it harder while reducing the impact on your joints.
If you have access to an underwater treadmill, the workout is reasonably straightforward, but any long pool will work. For best results, many people recommend working hard in short spurts and then doing lighter work in between sets. Make sure that you're using nearly perfect form with your back straight and upright. You might also consider using a flotation belt to keep you more buoyant. Give it a shot and you might be surprised just how much work it takes to move a short distance underwater.
Hop on the Stationary Bike
If you want to take a break from your running routine or aren't a fan of the treadmill in the first place, cycling on a stationary bike is a great way to burn some calories, break a sweat and push your endurance to the max. From low-intensity fat burning workouts to HIIT workouts that will get your heart racing, there's plenty that you can do on a stationary bike.
Keep in mind that there are various stationary bikes out there, from upright bikes to air bikes and depending on your goals, one might be better suited for you than the other. Also, just like you need specialized basketball shoes to shoot hoops, cycling shoes might be required to make the most out of your spin sessions.
Gear Up to Tackle Any Fall Workout
No matter what your fall workout routine includes, having the right activewear and footwear is a must. From gym shorts to performance shirts, athletic leggings and everything else that fills out your activewear wardrobe, investing in quality is key. For more specialized activities like indoor cycling or basketball, you'll need cycling shoes with clips or basketball shoes to help you tear up the hardwood. Consider your activewear less like clothing and more like apparel that will best support your athletic performance. As with anything, you can't ever go wrong when you shop with a legacy brand with decades of innovation.
About Reebok
Reebok has been at the forefront of athletic performance gear for decades. The brand is synonymous with crushing goals and setting new milestones across activities and training regimens. Whether you're a professional athlete or training for your first marathon, Reebok offers the gear your need to perform at your best. Reebok's workout clothes for women and men are made with performance in mind, keeping you cool, dry and comfortable no matter how hard the training session is. In addition, the brand also offers a variety of other athletic essentials, including cross training shoes, sports bras, athletic leggings and more. From bright white shoes to dominate the WOD to dynamic pink walking shoes, Reebok has you covered.
Gear up for your fall workouts at Reebok.com
