If you’re looking to burn through some of that body fat, you’re going to want proper aerobic exercise. There are many exercises you can do – improving strength, flexibility, and stamina – but only the best, full-body cardio exercises will burn calories like none other. Here are a few of the most accessible.

Running

Running is perhaps the simplest and most straightforward of all the most popular forms of exercise. That doesn’t mean, however, that it’s easy; many people despise running for the simple fact that it can be unpleasant if you’re not accustomed to it. On the other hand, it works wonders for your body. Running utilizes most major muscles. It gets your circulatory system functioning at top efficiency. It provides neurotransmitters to the brain like serotonin and dopamine that can contribute to positive moods. And, of course, it burns calories quite rapidly. The combined use of the legs, core, and upper body all in sync is to thank for that. Those who run regularly and push their bodies to the point of difficulty for at least twenty minutes at a time can even achieve a “runner’s high.”

Swimming

Swimming – in some ways – is similar to running. While it technically requires some basic training and practice to do, it is found by many to be as accessible and simple as running. It may also require some readjusting of technique if you are looking to swim more efficiently, but that’s not different from any other physical activity. The great thing about swimming is that it uses the different parts of your body more evenly and more intensely. While running uses the legs, core, and upper body, it’s safe to say that running is primarily legwork. Swimming, on the other hand, uses legs and arms in tandem, while requiring core support indefinitely. Abdominal muscles are critical to swimming, after all.

Dance

That’s right! You don’t need to just focus on a menial, repetitive physical exercise – but you can have fun while you burn calories too. Just dance! There are many kinds of dance, so it’s important that you find a dance that is both aerobic and that you enjoy. It’s easier to push yourself and exercise diverse parts of your body if you’re truly engaged with what you’re doing. Dance can enable you to express your best self on top of burning those large amounts of calories.

Ultimately, you need to find what works for you. You might not have a pool or a beach near you. You might not have the resources to use an official gym. But if you make sure to do aerobic exercise on a consistent basis – even just a couple of times a week – you will be surprised at the results.

Check out this article on why everyone should be lifting weights!