Our bodies are made to move, not sit around all day. Getting up and moving could be one of the best things for you. Cardio gets your blood pumping, your muscles warm and flexible, and your heart (the most important muscle of your body) stronger. Cardio benefits include:
- Weight loss
- Stronger heart and lungs
- Increased bone density
- Reduced stress
- Reduced risk of heart disease and some types of cancer
- Temporary relief from depression and anxiety
- More confidence about how you feel and how you look
- Better sleep
- More energy
- Setting a good example for your kids to stay active as they get older
How much is too much?
Spending hours on a treadmill in hopes of a healthier you isn’t necessary. A big benefit of cardio is that a little goes a long way. Doing a lot of cardio is a good way to improve your cardiovascular endurance, but an excessive amount can actually be harmful to your bones and joints. If all you’re looking to do is lose fat and build muscle, 1 to 2 hours per week is all you need.
What is the best way to burn fat?
High-intensity interval training is preferable to a low intensity steady state workout. That is to say, 4 to 6 second sprints with 4 minute periods of rest in between will get you better results that 60 minutes of incline walking.
Consider these activities & classes to kick up your cardio
- Lap swimming
- Cycling
- RPM
- ShockWave
- BodyAttack
- BodyCombat
- Boxing Fitness