Cardio tips?

[natto fire]

I am looking to do some intense hiking trips this summer, and was told the best path to endurance was cardio workouts.

I have been doing lots of cycling, and my recovery time has definitely improved, but it gets boring. I have done kayaking, and while I feel a workout in my upper body, it does not get the heart rate going like a very brisk bike ride. I don't like to jog or run because of impact on my joints.

So what is everyone doing for cardio that works upper body?

 

[KingGheedora]

Uneducated guess, but stairclimbing sounds like what you want. Maybe with weighted vest or backpack too.

 

[edcarman]

If you want specificity (try saying that fast!) for hiking, the stairclimbing already mentioned or running might be a good idea.

If you want a really good cardio activity that also works your upper body, you won't get much better than rowing (except, perhaps, cross-country skiing).

 

[The Sauce]

You must work in some HIIT sessions - at least 2-3 per week on top of your moderate intensity distance stuff.

 

[MJinZ]

If you want specificity (try saying that fast!) for hiking, the stairclimbing already mentioned or running might be a good idea.

If you want a really good cardio activity that also works your upper body, you won't get much better than rowing (except, perhaps, cross-country skiing).

I fail at rowing. Freaking hard lol.

 

[InflatableBuddha]

Swimming would work your upper body - not sure which strokes specifically would be best.