Cardio? Oh man, the word that many do not like to hear. Why? I think because they think it means running and, while I’m not 100 per cent sure, plenty of people despise the word.

In reality, however, cardio exercises are simply exercises that work your cardiovascular system beyond its normal resting rate.

Below are some non-running cardio options, my thoughts on them and where they are available:

Cycling

This is a great cardio option. It has a great impact on your quads and is very easy on the knees. Cycling will open up your lungs, give you the desired burn on your chest and, once you attempt to get off of your cycle, the wobble is real! Inclement weather? There are plenty of spin classes available on the island.

I’ve heard great things about Streaker’s Spin Studio, which operates out of Beast Gym.

Swimming

Swimming is an amazing whole-body exercise, regardless of your body type. It’s easy on the body, a lung opener; good exercise overall. Plus, swimmers have amazing shoulders and backs. Yes, we do have wintry months, but the National Sports Centre pool is heated. No excuse!

Brisk walking

Walking may seem boring, but it’s something most people can do. It’s also less intense, unless you are honest with your walking speed and include inclines. Find a group of friends and hit the pavement. The Bermuda Walking Club meets Sundays; look them up.

Elliptical machine

I can’t say that I enjoy it because it’s stationary and I love the outdoors and scenery. However, in inclement weather I have used it. My knees thanked me later as well.

Battle ropes

The cardio aspect comes with high reps, increased time and the mental toughness to push through the arm fatigue in order to get your heart pumping and lungs opened. I’ve seen battle ropes across the island, here at HindsSight, at Beast Gym, Beyond Fitness, Alchemy — I’m sure every gym on island has them as they’ve gained popularity over the years.

Rowing machine

This option is a huge favourite in the CrossFit community. It can be dubbed an upper-body exercise as well, but with intensity and increased time, your cardiovascular system will be working. Visit one of the CrossFit gyms on island and ask someone to teach you the proper technique to avoid injury. As with swimming, your shoulders and back will look amazing.

Trampolines

Trampoline jumping is a great non-running cardio option. Your quads and glutes will burn, your heart will be beating through your chest and you will undoubtedly sweat. Here at HindsSight we offer trampoline fitness classes. Come give us a try.

Step aerobics

Yeah, it’s making a comeback and it’s great cardio. You can join us at HindsSight as well.

Sliders

If you have a smooth, tiled floor and a pair of hand towels, you can do this exercise. In a plank position with your feet on the towels do the mountain climber action in intervals of 20 seconds with ten seconds rest.

Increase the time, decrease the rest and your cardiovascular system will be put to work. If you have gym access with the green turf ask for some actual “sliders” and get to work.

Dance fitness

You don’t have to have dance experience to get involved. Try Jasmine’s F3 class or some African dance with BDA Donquili.

Kickboxing

Fight City Fitness — I’ve tried their classes and was on the ground in a puddle of sweat afterwards. So, basically, these are your non-running cardio options. Pick an option, explore it and see if it’s something you want to add to your schedule.

Doing a variety will keep you motivated and can assist in transforming your body, as you have to move differently with each. Should you wish to stay in the gym, lower the weight, reduce your rest time and increase your reps — something we like to call high-intensity interval training.

• Dre Hinds is a retired track and field athlete who is now a personal trainer, aerobic and yoga instructor and fitness “addict” with more than 20 years’ experience. She specialises in nutrition, weight and sprint training, operating out of HindsSight Fitness & Wellness at the Berkeley Cultural Centre. Contact her on: absbydre@gmail.com or 599-0412. Look for @Absbydre on Facebook and Instagram