Jumping rope
You probably just thought of it as a game when you were young, but jumping rope is one of the most exhausting cardiovascular workouts you could ask for. Elite boxers use jumping rope as a conditioning tool. Against popular belief, it is not just your legs that are getting the workout. In addition to the jumps your legs power, your arms are moving the rope and if you're keeping good form, your body is tucking, moving and holding in muscles to end up with good tone. Depending on your weight and the intensity of your jumping, you can burn about 300 calories in 30 minutes.

Tai chi
Tai chi is derived from a series of movements found in martial arts. The emphasis is on form and slow-flowing movements as you move from one position (form) to another. Because it is a calculated practice designed to focus on the form, you need to learn the proper techniques from the very beginning to reap the benefits of this great low-impact workout.

Don't think you're not getting a good workout just because the movements are slow and calculated. Tai chi requires a good deal of concentration: You must learn to focus on specific muscles and how they relate to one another. Many of the poses demand strength, balance and some degree of coordination and thus involve your mind more than other cardiovascular activities. Another benefit of the slower pace is that many people feel calmed, not revved up by this activity. Though this is not an intense workout as other activities, it's a great way to make sure you're getting out there and at least doing something. It's also a great exercise regimen for those recovering from injuries or illness, or older exercisers who are looking for a slower program. Depending on your weight and the intensity of your workout, you can burn about 120 calories in 30 minutes.

Inline skating
Inline skating burst onto the scene in the '90s. Part of the reason for its popularity is that it brings the flow of ice-skating and all the games that go with it to the outdoors. Inline skates are relatively inexpensive and can help you get from here to there faster than walking. There are the people who just love the glide that skates give you as opposed to the more jarring motion of running. In fact, research suggests that inline skating can burn almost as many calories as running but without all the impact. Inline skating also engages different muscles and is known for its ability to tone your legs and glutes like no other. Depending on your weight and the intensity of your exercise, you can burn about 200 calories in 30 minutes.

Racquet sports
Whether you play tennis, racquetball, squash or other racquet sports, you're sure to get a good cardio workout, as well as improve your coordination and gain some agility. Racquet sports involve a lot of start-and-stop play, so be prepared to burn fewer calories than when you engage in activities that offer continuous movement. The bonus of racquet sports is that you play them against a competitor, and with that comes a natural fighting spirit that you wouldn't necessarily have on a treadmill. The whole idea of racquet sports is that they're fun to play. The aside is that while you're having fun, you also work in that beneficial exercise. Depending on your weight and the intensity of the workouts, you can burn about 240 calories in 30 minutes.

If you do these in the off-season you will have more stamina and better performance once the lifts start moving again. So, if you dream of that first early season snow fall and can't wait to load up the car with equipment, then do your self a favor and stay in shape to enjoy the snow better.

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