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Hi, I am wondering what upper body cardio is good for overall fitness/conditioning. I hear tell that former prison inmantes used to be forced to crank a machine for 8 hours per day in a seated position(it beats typing on a computer). Skipping rope and hitting the speedbag are ideas that have come to my mind for "upper body" cardio. Does anyone have any others which doon't necessitate a gym or a lot of equipment?

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Swimming, without using your legs. – Daniel Apr 21 2011 at 14:44

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No such thing, really, as upper body "cardio." You're heart and lungs don't differentiate if you are working your legs, arms, etc. Your heart rate and respiration will increase in response to the work you are doing.

Skipping rope and speedbag training are great exercise, speedbag especially for upper body strength.

Other upper body exercises that don't require a gym membership:

Pushups, Pullups, Chinups, Kettlebell Cleans/Presses/Snatches, Dips

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While it requires opening the hips quite a bit, swinging a kettlebell always gets my heartrate up, quickly. – Tom R. Apr 21 2011 at 13:25
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Hitting the heavy bag is super for cardio and upper body.

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Rowing and paddling.

In race walking, the upper body contributes to the propulsion, much more than in regular walking or running.

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How about using an Airdyne with just your arms? That or a handcrank bike would work quite well. In addition if you have access to a concept2 rower you could row with only your back and arms. That's a standard drill for crew but crushing if you keep it up for a while.

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Assisted pullups or kneeling pushups. Or normal ones, depending on your strength.

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boxing -- sparring or hitting a punching bag; good cardio kickboxing is good utilization of upper body and core as well

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