Strength training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), plyometric training, anaerobic exercise, cardio – OMG. All the terminology used in the fitness world is difficult to deal with, let alone fully understood. So, we want to address these topics little by little on our blog. Today we’re going to dive into cardio. What is it? Should you add it to your fitness routine?
What Is Aerobic Exercise?
Aerobic exercise means “aerobic”. This exercise promotes the flow of oxygen throughout the body, which is a very good thing. Improving oxygen flow also improves circulation throughout the body. In general, you’ll need to exert moderate levels of energy for long periods of time to enjoy the health benefits of aerobic exercise. Examples of aerobic exercises include jogging, weightlifting, group exercise classes like Zumba, and many more.
How Long Should Cardio Last?
The American Heart Association recommends completing regular aerobic exercise 5-7 times a week for at least 30 minutes a day. Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean you need to work out in the gym 7 days a week or overwork. In fact, please don’t. The following is information about the importance of rest days. These 30 minutes can include long walks, hiking, spending a day at the beach, or even breaking down into a full day. Like, 10 minutes in the morning, 10 minutes in the afternoon, 10 minutes in the evening – not bad, right?
Examples of Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise and cardio are basically the same (with a little caveat). They are all designed to allow oxygen to flow throughout the body at a higher intake and increase the heart rate. For example, fitness classes such as jogging, running, skipping rope, Zumba, etc. However, you can also do anaerobic aerobic exercises (HIIT training, sprints, etc.). So, that’s the difference between the two. Aerobic exercise can be switched from aerobic to anaerobic depending on the intensity of the exercise.
The Benefits of Aerobic Fitness
A healthy mix of aerobic and anaerobic exercise in your daily life is crucial. You will benefit from the benefits of this routine, such as improved cardiovascular health (heart health), maintaining or regulating weight, improving memory, building strength, improving mood, reducing the risk of osteoporosis, and more.
Where to Start Cardio
We believe that starting as a professional as possible is the best option. So, think about what kind of workout you want to accomplish. Is it aerobic exercise and strength training, or aerobic exercise, a little aerobic kickboxing, and so on? Then choose to take a group exercise session or a team training session. There are a few reasons why we like to exercise in a group setting. First, each class or class has a certified fitness professional to guide you throughout. They will be able to correct your posture and find ways to increase the difficulty of your workouts or customize them to help you avoid injury. They are also excellent motivators that can help you go the extra mile – and sometimes they do. Another reason we love group workouts is that you’ll be able to build a community. On those days when you don’t want to go to the gym at all, people will hold you accountable, connect with you, and motivate you to go to the gym. We’ve all been there!
What Equipment Is Needed?
One of the benefits of cardio is that it can be done anytime, anywhere. You can do your cardio workout in your hotel room, on the sidewalk, in the water, on your bike, and of course, in the gym. And the gear you need is your weight. If you want something more, though, you can use cardio exercise equipment like weights, straps, slings, and more. The limit depends on your imagination and what you are able to achieve today. Sometimes, you may want to pick up a kettlebell for a cardio workout, while other times, your body may be just what you need.
