Running is an excellent way to shed pounds, improve aerobic fitness, and extend your lifespan.

But not everyone enjoys pounding the pavement, hitting the trails, or clocking miles on a treadmill.

For some, physical limitations or health concerns make running impractical or unsafe.

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Aerobic exercise in general provides a host of health benefits, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Staying active can also contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Get ready to break a sweat and maximize your results!

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Jump Rope

Jump rope is a highly effective exercise for burning calories.

Kettlebell Swings

Kettlebell swings are very effective for burning calories and improving your fitness.

“The kettlebell swing is a great way to increase heart rate and burn calories.

fit, focused woman doing kettlebell swing exercise

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“Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

Hold the kettlebell handle with both hands, allowing the bell to hang between your legs.

With a slight bend in your knees, hinge at your hips and swing the kettlebell between your legs.

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Thrust your hips forward, swinging the kettlebell up to chest level,” explains Kolba.

While the arms seem to do the work, it’s actually the whole body that gets fit.

While the study was conducted with healthy older adults, anyone can reap stair climbing’s cardiovascular benefits.

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If you could’t access hiking trails, incline treadmill walking is a great alternative,” advises Meier.

“Setting up your bike correctly before workouts is key to avoiding injury and staying safe.

If you take it outside, see to it you learn the rules of the road first.”

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Cycling offers several other benefits beyond its calorie-burning potential.

Swimming is a low-impact, calorie-torching activity.

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