It’s not surprising that those with an active lifestyle enjoy benefits such as a healthier cardiovascular system, better oxygen flow and lower blood pressure.<br />Thankfully, you don’t have to participate in “standard” cardio fitness, like running, swimming or cycling, to achieve these benefits. <br />Here are six activities outside the cardio-norm that will get your heart pumping just as fast. <br />1. Going for a brisk walk that's fast enough that it raises your heart rate, but slow enough that it's still easy on your joints.<br />2. Doing high intensity household chores like mowing the lawn or shoveling snow.<br />3. Adding “active commuting” to your day, such as taking the stairs or walking to your destination.<br />4. Performing strength-building activities, such as yoga or lifting weights, two days a week.<br />5. Letting loose with fun activities like dancing, hula-hooping or pickup basketball.<br />6. Adding “exercise snacks” to your day, such as a 10 minute jump rope session.
