Rain Rain Go Away

Coastal living has its ups and downs.  Looking at the upside, I am able to enjoy sunrise beach walks, weekend boat rides and fresh seafood...need I say more?  However, in the summer I can't stand the constant RAIN!  It is really putting a damper (no pun intended) on my fitness routine.  The afternoon showers are forcing my evening runs, walks and bike rides indoors - which for the past three weeks has me skipping all together.  Something about spending 30 (monotonous) minutes on indoor cardio machines has really killed my motivation. 

So this leaves me thinking...what are some activities I can enjoy indoors and stay on track? 

I think I will try...

1. Group Fitness Class.  Classes like Spinning, Kickboxing, or Step Aerobics can burn between 350 - 400 calories!  A great way to try a new activity and build variety to your current fitness routine. 

2. An Exercise Video.  Another great way to add variety, you can choose a video ranging from Yoga/Pilates to Hip Hop Dance.  I think I'm going to try So You Think You Can Dance: Cardio Funk - a new release complete with Hip Hop, Disco, and Contemporary dance moves!  (Not only will I burn calories breaking a sweat, but I'm sure a laugh or two!)

3. Jumping Rope.  A quick interval workout can blast calories in 10 minutes or less.  Check out this routine from Sparkpeople.com.  An added plus - you can purchase for under $15!

4. EA Sports Active.  Compatible for Nintendo Wii, Active is a customizable fitness program.  (Yes - in a video game!)  Not only will this program track your progress, you can enjoy activities like dancing, in-line skating, tennis and volleyball in the comfort of your living room!  There is an Active 30 Day Challenge - motivating you to try a new exercise each day.  (Check out the Wii Fit for more of a balance/strength training program.)

5. Window Shopping (aka Mall Walking).  A less intense form of aerobic exercise, but sure to cover a lot of ground.  Wear a pedometer to track your steps and be sure to take the stairs!

6. Interval Routine.  If I must be stationed to the treadmill or elliptical, I will try to break the boredom by changing it up.  Similar to the Treading Class at H3, switching the speed, incline or resistance will keep you (and your muscles) guessing.  Warm up at a slow pace for 5 minutes, then alternate 1-2 minutes of high intensity between 1-2 minutes of recovery.  Repeat for a total of 20 minutes.  Make sure to cool down and stretch!