Cardio

Jumping jacks

The classic star jump — fast, rhythmic cardio.

Beginner Includes jumping No equipment
Movement diagram for Jumping jacks: standing (front) to jumping jack, star (front)
Original diagram — start and finish positions.

How to do it

  1. Stand with feet together and arms by your sides.
  2. Jump your feet out wide as you sweep your arms overhead.
  3. Jump back to the start.
  4. Keep a steady rhythm.

Form tips

  • Land with soft knees.
  • Stay light on the balls of your feet.

Common mistakes

  • Landing with straight, stiff legs.

Easier and harder

Make it easier

Do step jacks: step one foot out at a time with the arm sweep (low impact).

Make it harder

Go faster, or add a half squat as you land wide.

Sources

  1. NHS: 10 ways to stop leaks — checked 3 Oct 2026

More cardio exercises