The Perfect 10 Minute Cardio
Written by Amanda Russell
I have to admit, I love routine, and as much as many of us don’t like to admit it, there is comfort in doing the same things and knowing exactly what to expect—no surprises, no fear, no thinking required. And sometimes, routine can be a very good thing.
For example, getting into a routine of getting motivated and dressed to workout out daily is great! But when it comes to the workout itself, doing the same exercise routine everyday = not so good or effective.
Not only are you likely to become bored and unmotivated, realize that your muscles also have memory. When you do the same thing all the time your body adapts and becomes more efficient at doing the same things, thus they don’t have to work as hard. The positive effects diminish in returns over time, which is why you must keep changing things up, surprising your body, keep it guessing, challenge yourself.
Think of it like a recipe, you can have all the right ingredients but if you don’t put them in the right order or at the right time, your meal isn’t going to turn out the way you want.
This is why I created the FSS monthly plan, it helps to help you chart/schedule workouts so that you know which types of workouts to do on which days, altering your workouts daily and weekly. No more hitting plateaus in your training or goals.
Not quite ready to dive in, or want to mix up your current routine, that’s where the Mix ‘N Match Workout series comes in. Pair this workout with any of the other workouts in the series to create a complete total body workout.
Also you can create based on time: one day you might have time to pair 3 to create a 30min workout, some days only 2 can be squeezed in. Regardless the constant changing and challenging will keep you getting stronger, better and more fit!
Ready?
Lets do it:
What you need:
Light Set of dumbbellsr
Don’t have any- try two filled 1 liter bottles or cans
The Workout
Set One
30 seconds each x 2
Mountain Climbersr
Front lunge to side lunge w dumbbellr
Leaning one arm Shoulder Press
5 pike jumps + push up
90 degree angle front to side pressr
Repeat
Set Twor
Hand Stand Kicksr
Side Arm Liftsr
Front Arm Liftsr
Bicep Curlsr
One Arm Tricep Extensionsr
Repeat
Total Time: 10 minutesr
Watch the video below for the step by step how to do this workout;
Arms Burning?
POST your ARM poses on instagram – tag me @AmandaRussellFSS
If you want to complete the other real time workouts and learn how to schedule your workouts each week (have me mix’n’match for you), I have also made this possible – FSS Membership + also has BONUS Workouts, Fitness Plans and e-books that are exclusive to the FSS members
Article author
About the Author
Amanda Russell is a top-rated fitness and lifestyle writer, professional keynote speaker, Olympic-trained athlete, model, spokeswoman, founder of www.FitStrongandSexy.com and one of the industry's leading experts on fitness, wellness and change. Amanda hosts and executive produces the online fitness series: Fit Strong and Sexy. To watch Amanda's show, visit www.Youtube.com/AmandaRussell
Further reading
Further Reading
Article
The Real Reason Your Diet Isn't "Sticking" (It's Not About Discipline)
September 17, 2026
Article
Gym Etiquette in Cincinnati: A Beginner’s Guide to Hygiene and Courtesy
Learn the essential gym etiquette rules every beginner should know, from personal hygiene and cleaning equipment to respecting shared spaces. Follow these simple tips to make every workout safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone.
September 14, 2026
Article
The Discipline of Doing Two Hard Things Well
Most people think building both strength and endurance is a willpower problem. Push harder, want it more, grind through the fatigue. It isn't. It's a sequencing problem — and learning to solve it teaches something bigger than fitness.
September 13, 2026
Article
Budget-Friendly Anti-Inflammatory Swaps
Frozen berries, canned fish, dried lentils & local seasonal produce — same benefits, lower cost. No expensive superfoods required.
September 13, 2026