A few months ago I decided it was time for me to do some cardio. What better way to start then with a nice jog on a track, or some swift interval runs on a treadmill? So I did just that...for about 2 minutes. I suddenly got these terrible flashbacks from when I was younger of my tennis camp "punishment" for not running after the ball. The coach made me run around the courts in 90 degree heat (which should have been illegal due to the temperature).  Hmmm, so there's the reason I  hate running so much. With each day at the gym I would try the elliptical, the treadmill, the track and with each day my hatred for running grew more and more....

    However, I was still very determined to  place cardio in my life. After all, it's great for your heart, weight loss,  breathing, stress, energy, and even increased bone density ('Why You Need Cardio Exercise'). So with some research, and self- guinea pig testing here are some great cardio workouts that will make you feel great (and break a sweat).

JUMP ROPE - We all used to do it as kids... It's fun, but its not as easy as it sounds. This exercise will get your heart rate up and give you a full body workout. If done correctly, you will see great results.

Click here for a jump rope fitness workout

TENNIS - While it may be difficult to find a partner, or expensive to rent a tennis court, keep in mind that the cement wall at your local playground will serve just great for a person who wants to play tennis on their own. If you do not know how to play the game, go around some tennis courts and find out lesson fees, or you can always find some instructional tennis videos online.

SWIMMING-  Another activity that sounded easy, but was hard. The key to swimming many laps (other then pushing yourself and keeping the right form..and I'm talking freestyle and breast strokes people, not doggie paddles) is breathing correctly.

Click here for tips on correct breathing under water

CLASSES - The thing that I love about classes is not only that they are fun and much more interesting then looking at a wall (which was usually the case when I ran on a tread mill), but there is an instructor who gets you pumped up and ready to go. I usually stand in the front during classes so that I can get the best view of the exercises and it works as a great motivator since you know there are 15 to 20 people standing behind you and some maybe following you!