So you want to get your cardio done but you hate running? Luckily, there are plenty of other aerobic exercises out there that can have similar benefits to running. 

Aerobic exercises are usually performed at a higher intensity and they require oxygen for your body to produce energy. Aerobic exercises are also known as cardiovascular exercises because they get your heart rate up. Cardio exercises are considered extremely beneficial for many reasons including better heart health. 

Here are some cardio exercises that can get your heart rate up. 


Walking may not burn as many calories as running but it can certainly get your heart rate up if you’re doing a brisk walk. You may need to walk more and faster to burn more calories but it’s a great alternative if you don’t like running. 

Even less than one hour of walking daily can have major health benefits and help you stay in shape. The best thing is that you can do this while doing your other daily activities like running errands or walking to work. Try to incorporate more walking into your daily life for better health. 


Cycling can be more fun than running and feel less tiring. You can choose the intensity depending on your fitness and energy level. Cycling can have many health benefits from increased cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and joint mobility, decreased stress levels and anxiety, better posture, and decreased fat levels.

Like walking, you can add cycling to your daily routine as a means of transportation, rather than taking the car or public transportation.


If you’re looking to relieve some stress while getting your heart rate up, kickboxing can be a great option. Not only it allows you to burn calories and improve coordination while doing a total body workout, but it can also improve your mood, boost your confidence, and help improve your posture by strengthening your core. 

Kickboxing also helps you get a boost of energy. If you were looking for an alternative kind of cardio workout, start searching for kickboxing lessons in your area. 


Swimming is considered one of the best all-round exercises that get your heart rate up, builds endurance, muscle strength, and cardiovascular fitness. Swimming also helps maintain healthy lungs and build strength. 

Swimming can also be a relaxing activity, helping alleviate stress while also improving coordination, balance, posture, and flexibility. Whether you do recreation or competitive swimming, you’ll reap the benefits. 


Why not have some fun while doing your cardio with some dance moves? Whether you are more into hip-hop or Latin-American, taking some dance lessons can be a great way to improve heart and lungs’ health, strength, and muscle tone. 

Dancing will also help improve your coordination and agility, your confidence, and your overall physical and mental wellbeing.