People were fit long before the elliptical machine — it makes sense to incorporate some low-tech fitness moves into your day. These blasts from the past are fun and beneficial:

• Farmer’s walk. Reminiscent of country chores, you carry a heavy weight in each hand and walk, keeping core muscles tight and shoulders back for good posture. You can use dumbbells, kettlebells, or, most authentically, filled water buckets. Farm tip: 4 gallons of water equal 33 pounds.

• Stair climbing. No need for a machine — head to your nearest tall building, transportation hub, or sports stadium to find plenty of invigorating steps. Bonus: This study found that stair climbing achieved the same aerobic improvement as flat walking in half the time.

• Jumprope. You’ll find this schoolyard game is not just for kids. Even boxers and NFL athletes use the rope as a demanding workout to increase endurance and improve footwork. At a fast pace, it’s the calorie-burning equivalent of running at 7 miles/hour (an 8.5-minute mile).

Add these old favorites to your activity this week for a new challenge.