Cardio workouts can get repetitive if you don’t switch them up. See how you can stay motivated and add more fun to your cardio routine—no running required.
If your cardio routine is starting to feel like a chore, it might be time to switch things up. Doing the same treadmill workout day after day can get tedious—the repeated incline, speed, and duration dimming your excitement.
Or you’ve been running the same trail or route, and the scenery that once motivated you now just feels monotonous. It’s safe to say that repetition can get pretty boring. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
Shaking up your cardio routine might be just what you’re after.
Why you should switch up your cardio routine
The top reason to make a change to your cardio workout is likely obvious: to avoid boredom. When you start to dread your workout, it can stunt your motivation to exercise. You can keep your workouts interesting by trying something new.
Plus, varying your cardio routine allows you to target different muscle groups. By trying a new cardio machine or workout, you can improve fitness in other areas of your body.
But there are even more benefits for your health that can motivate you to stick with your cardio routine.
There’s more to cardio exercise than boosting your heart health. It can also increase blood flow and oxygen flow throughout the body, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and support good cholesterol levels. The bigger picture? Regular cardio exercise can:
Another benefit? Research suggests that cardio exercise can also lead to a longer, healthier life. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio per week.
It’s clear that your cardio routine can help you feel better and enjoy life to the fullest. And those are great motivational factors. But how exactly can you keep your cardio workouts enjoyable?
Building a fun, new cardio routine
One of the great things about cardio exercise is that it offers a wide range of options. The key is to find something you enjoy that will get your heart and respiratory rate up.
Here are 3 tips to help you find fun, new ways to fire up your motivation and your cardiovascular endurance.
1. Take it outdoors.
Switching up the location of your cardio workout is a surefire way to break out of a rut. Instead of sticking to the same old routine, try searching for a new trail or park nearby for your next session. You can hit the trails for walking, running, hiking, or biking. You can create your own circuit in the park. If you’re looking to add more adventure to your walking routine, consider joining a walking tour!
There are plenty of fun ways you can bring your cardio exercises outside. Try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or rucking. Or if you are feeling adventurous and have the skill, try activities like ice skating, mountain biking, kayaking, or rock climbing. You might even give something like Nordic pole walking a shot.
If you like to stick to walking because it's easier on your joints, just know there are other options you might enjoy. Here are some other low-impact cardio exercises:
2. Get playful.
Remember back to when you were a kid. Staying active probably wasn’t something you made a plan to do. You just played. And if your play was the active kind, your cardio was built right in.
So, think back to the activities you enjoyed as a child. Go on a long bike ride. Go swimming. Chase your dog in your yard. Shoot some hoops. You can even go for a round of golf—just ditch the golf cart to get even more steps in.
You can also make your cardio workout more social by inviting your family or friends to join in the fun with you. Pickleball is all the rage these days. Or you can all join a recreational sports league, such as softball or volleyball.
Learn other ways to add joyful movement into your life.
3. Take a new workout class.
There are so many unique cardio classes out there—some you may not have even known were options. Have you ever thought of taking an Argentine tango class? What about tap dance, Tahitian dance, swing, or salsa? Dance and dance-based workouts are great ways to get some cardio while having fun.
But don’t fret if dancing isn’t for you. There are plenty of other fitness classes to choose from.
If you’re already a member of a gym or studio, why not branch out and try a new style of class that challenges your body in a different way? You could try a beginner-friendly kickboxing class or a yoga class. Or perhaps you typically stick to Pilates. There are numerous Pilates classes, including reformer, mat, or combo classes. You can join a group class or book a private session. With so many options, you’re sure to find something that suits your style.
Keep fun at the heart of your cardio workouts. But remember to keep safety as your first priority. After getting your doctor’s OK, be sure to get proper training if your activity requires it. And if your activity calls for specific gear, find out what you need and how to use it safely.
The next time you catch yourself growing bored with your cardio routine—like you’re just running in circles—don’t feel stuck. Shake things up and break free from that rut. Get playful, try something new, and discover fun ways to lift your spirits and get excited about working out again.
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This information is not intended to take the place of regular medical care or advice. Please check with your doctor before using this information or beginning any self-care program. Images used for this article do not depict any members of the Silver&Fit program.
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This article was written by Stephanie Ruiz, edited by Jason Nielsen, and clinically reviewed by Jaynie Bjornaraa, PhD, MPH, PT, LAT, ATC, CSCS, CSPS, on November 18, 2025.