Hitting the treadmill is an excellent fat burner and running certainly improves your overall health. Even a short run can give you a buzz of endorphins and help clear your head. However, sometimes a commitment to the treadmill can leave you feeling in a rut. We’ve compiled our favourite cardio workouts that will give you the same benefits while still shaking up your routine.

Fighting

Okay, don’t go starting rows in pub car parks, we mean the organised kind. MMA, boxing and martial arts are all fantastic ways to get your blood pumping. Long distance runners might find the short intense bursts of cardio a challenge at first, but the super hit of endorphins afterwards should more than make up for it. Plus, self-defence can be a very useful skill to develop and is often cited as a great confidence booster.

Rowing

Rowing is a perfect choice for anyone who would like to switch up their cardio to work on their upper body. While your glutes will still be working hard, your chest, shoulders and back will have a whole new level of activity. If you choose to go further than the rowing machine, why not seek out your local team? Not only will this push you to reach your full cardio potential, it also adds a social element to your routine.