Dorm Room Workout Series: Cardio

By Garnet Henderson

What’s that, you say? Cardio? In my dorm? But I don’t have a treadmill…or an elliptical…or any space to run!

Ladies, I’m here to tell you that it is totally possible to get a great cardio workout without ever leaving your dorm. So put down your books and take a heart-healthy study break.

1. Run Up the Stairs

This is a simple, easy and effective workout. You know that running will get your heart rate up, and running up stairs will also tone your hamstrings and butt. So not only will you build endurance and burn fat, you’ll also look great in your jeans all winter. You should run for about 10 minutes, as running up the stairs is a little more intense than running on level ground.

2. Body Builders

Also known as burpees, these are great for cardio as well as for full body strengthening. Start standing with your feet hip width apart. Bend down and place your hands on the floor by your feet. Jump out into plank position. Then jump your feet back in to your hands, and finish by jumping up into the air and reaching your arms over your head. Remember to engage your abdominals to support your back in plank position. Repeat four more times.

3. High Knee Runs

To keep your heart rate up, try this move. Run in place, but bring your knees as high up toward your chest as you can with each step. Try to keep your spine straight, and don’t hunch down toward your knees. Do this for 30 seconds.

To complete your workout, repeat the sequence of five body builders and 30 seconds of high knee runs three times.