You want to get in shape? Use a deck of cards!

I get in a rut when it comes to fitness.   

The lazy, apathetic, lethargic part of me wants to do the same thing or nothing day after day.  The small part of me that's energetic and lively knows I need to mix things up and work harder to get some results.  

My daughter told me of a way to work just a wee bit harder when it comes to burning off the Christmas goodies!  If you want to try it, you'll need a deck of cars and some room.

Before you begin, you'll need to determine what exercise each card represents. This is my choice:

Hearts = Jumping Jacks  (Cardio and heart goes together)

Diamonds = squats

Spades = sit-ups (crunches)

Clubs = push-ups (Just imagine the top of the clover is the head and the sides are the shoulders because you're going to feel it there when you're finished!)

The number on the card determines how many you'll do. Face cards and Aces are 10.  You can decide what you want to do with the jokers.  You can run in place for 30 seconds or take a rest for 30 seconds.

Shuffle the cards so you can get a good mixture of exercises.  Place the deck face down on a table, (I use the coffee table in my family room) a chair, or on the floor.  Turn the cards over one at a time (2 at a time will also work).  By the time you're finished with the deck of cards, you will have done 94 jumping jacks, 94 squats, 94 crunches and 94 push-ups! Let me warn you right now, your muscles will be screaming at you the next day...and the next.  In fact, it wasn't until the 4th day that I attempted it again.  

I have a feeling I will never look at a deck of cards in the same way I did before.

Happy exercising!

Oh, and by the way, if you haven't entered my giveaway, go here.  You have until Thursday evening.