Let’s face it: Repeating the same cardio routine can become monotonous. So, we consulted with an expert who shares a quick seven-minute workout that can enhance strength better than traditional cardio. This routine spotlights strength training within a high-intensity training (HIT) framework to boost energy and uplift mood. Eric North, known as The Happiness Warrior—a wellness speaker, coach, and advocate redefining aging with strength, purpose, and emotional vitality—believes a successful workout plan encourages other healthy habits for aging gracefully and confidently.

“This brief yet impactful workout features a high-intensity circuit, blending aerobic and resistance exercises to improve both strength and endurance, using just a chair, a wall, and your body weight,” North explains. He adds, “Before beginning any new exercise routine, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Pay attention to your body, altering any movements as necessary to ensure they’re safe and effective according to your fitness level. Acknowledge the significance of balance and well-being derived from a happy body/happy mind.”

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Perform each of the exercises below for 30 seconds. Take a 10-second rest between each move. For maximum benefits—and if you have a bit more time—repeat the circuit 2 to 3 times, making the workout approximately 14 to 21 minutes long.

“Most of the time 10 to 12 reps will be performed in 30 seconds making it easier to stay on track. This will become second nature once it becomes a healthy habit,” North says. “Note: Focus on breathing through the nose to increase VO2 output (lung capacity) to increase endurance naturally.”

Jumping Jacks

1. Stand tall with feet together and arms at your sides.
2. Jump your feet out while lifting your arms overhead.
3. Jump back to the start position.

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Step-ups

1. Stand tall, facing a sturdy chair or workout bench.
2. Step onto it with your leading leg, bringing the other leg to meet it.
3. Step back down.
4. Alternate the lead leg for 30 seconds.

High Knees

1. Stand tall.
2. Quickly alternate lifting one knee as high as you can as if running in place.
3. Maintain good posture throughout.

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Lunges

1. Stand tall with your feet parallel, hip-distance apart.
2. Step one foot forward.
3. Bring your hands to your hips.
4. Engage your core as you bend your knees, lowering to form 90-degree bends in both legs.
5. Keep your upper body straight.
6. Press through your front heel and the ball of your back foot to rise back up.
7. Alternate legs with each rep.

Wall Sit

1. Stand tall with your back pressed against a wall.
2. Slide down until your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle as if you’re sitting in a chair.
3. Hold for 30 seconds.

Squats

1. Stand tall, feet shoulder-width apart.
2. Extend your arms ahead of you or place your hands on your hips.
3. Bend at the knees and hips to lower into a squat.
4. Descend until your thighs are parallel to the floor.
5. Press through your heels to return to standing.

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Pushups

1. Start with a high plank with your hands under your shoulders and your body straight.
2. Bend your elbows and lower your chest toward the floor.
3. Maintain a long, straight body as you lower.
4. Press back up, straightening your arms.

Tricep Dips

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1. Begin sitting at the edge of a sturdy chair.
2. Place your hands on the edge of the seat and lift your tailbone off the chair.
3. Walk your feet away until your knees, hips, and torso form 90-degree angles.
4. Activate your core and keep your shoulders relaxed as you bend your elbows to lower your body just below the seat.
5. Press back up until your arms are straight, engaging your triceps as you do so.

Pushup With Rotation

1. Start with a high plank with hands under your shoulders and your body straight.
2. Bend your elbows and lower your chest toward the floor.
3. Maintain a long, straight body as you lower.
4. As you rise, rotate in one direction and extend the top arm toward the sky.
5. Alternate sides with each rep.

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Crunches

1. Lie flat on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
2. Maintain a tight core as you lift your head and shoulders off the ground toward your knees.
3. To make this move more challenging, lift your legs straight up and reach with your hands to meet your toes, forming a “V” shape.

Plank

1. Place your hands under your shoulders.
2. Press into the pads of your fingers and hug your inner arm toward your armpit.
3. Walk your feet out to hip-width.
4. Engage your abs, squeeze your buttocks, and pull upward through your quads.
5. Hold the position.

Side Plank

1. Begin by lying on your side and placing your elbow below your shoulder.
2. Your feet should be stacked.
3. Lift your hips off the floor so that your body forms a straight line from your head to your feet.

Alexa Mellardo