Ah, burpees. You either love ‘em or hate ‘em. Period.
Although this four-point move continues to divide fitness fanatics around the world, it helps to remember that there are many benefits associated with this full-body cardio exercise.
But you’re not here for that. You’re trying to think of a way to avoid this vilified high-intensity workout altogether. Well, you’ve come to the right place.
These safer alternatives will help you get the results you’re looking for without leaving you gasping (too much!) for air. You can easily add these great burpee substitutes to your current workout routine.
Jumping Jacks
This one will probably remind you of gym class back in school but did you know that jumping jacks are an easy way to burn overall body fat?! By activating various muscle groups, this calisthenic move works out your whole body. Challenge yourself by trying out different variations such as Plank Jacks and Alternating Jumping Jacks.
Pushups
You don’t need any introduction to this popular strengthening move. While traditional pushups help in building upper body strength, you can try adding various techniques in order to get maximum results. For instance, the walking pushup is a great way to work your shoulders and tone your core. Burpees? Who needs them.
Jump Squats
While jump squats may seem as ‘explosive’ as burpees, they’re far more easier to perform once you get the form right and won’t tax your body as much. This high-intensity plyometric exercise works your glutes, lower abs and leg muscles. Oh, and it’ll also help you shed fat from the lower body and build strength.
Mountain Climbers
Get your heart pumping big time with this compound exercise that works several muscle groups all at once. This full-body move is a staple in HIIT and strength training programmes. The best part? Mountain climbers are good both as a warm-up and as a finisher to your workout routine.
Murpees
Also known as the modified burpee. If you’re still not convinced about swapping your burpees with the above exercises, the murpees are here to save the day. These are less strenuous than their infamous counterpart and will still give you all the strengthening benefits of a burpee.