When most people think of cardiovascular exercise (cardio), the first activities that come to mind are running, biking, or swimming. Yes, these are great ways to get your heart rate up, but not everyone enjoys them. Cardio should be a key part of your healthy lifestyle. Fortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
If you want to incorporate more cardio into your exercise routine, don’t be intimidated by the experienced marathon runners you see in your neighborhood. Heart-healthy workouts don’t have to mean spending hours on the treadmill. There are many fun and creative ways to do cardio while having fun.
Why do you need cardio in the first place?
Cardio is defined as any type of exercise that increases your heart rate and keeps it at a high level for an extended period of time. Your respiratory system begins to work harder as you begin to breathe faster and deeper. Your blood vessels expand to bring more oxygen to your muscles, and your body releases natural pain relievers (endorphins).
The physical and mental benefits of this type of exercise seem endless.
Control your weight: There is a lot of scientific evidence that 150 to 150 minutes of moderate intensity cardio a week will help you maintain your weight over time.
Long-term:
Prevent Heart Disease: Research has shown that increasing your heart rate through regular cardiovascular exercises helps prevent heart disease.
Mood Enhancement: It probably won’t surprise you, but research supports the role cardiovascular exercise plays in improving your mood and increasing your happiness. Cardio increases the production of those feel-good painkillers called endorphins.
You will live longer: People who do regular cardio exercises live longer.
14 Fun Cardio Exercise Options
Think outside the box and try something new with these fun cardio options. The key to any successful training program is finding an activity that you enjoy. Once you find an exercise you love, you’ll have so much fun that you’ll have to remember that you’re also improving your health.
1. Jump
Chances are you haven’t jump rope since fourth grade recess. If so, get yourself a jump rope today! This form of cardio can be done almost anywhere. Put on your favorite playlist and jump to the beat. By slipping the jump rope into your backpack, suitcase, or purse, you can get in your 150 minutes of exercise per week as soon as you have some free time.
2. Dance
Whether you think you have two left feet or not, dancing is a great way to blow off steam while getting some physical exercise. You may think dancing is limited to Zumba classes, but what’s stopping you from dancing in your bedroom? Turn up the music volume and dance like crazy.
3. Organized sports
You may not consider yourself a “jock,” but there are tons of adult sports leagues out there that are full of people just like you, people who want to have fun and stay healthy. Sign up for soccer, basketball, or any other sport that interests you. Running around a field or court is guaranteed to get your heart rate up. Look for non-competitive sports leagues in your municipality. You might even make a new friend while you’re there!
4. Walking briskly
You don’t have to look like one of those walkers to experience the benefits of this type of cardio. Get outside (or stay on the treadmill if the weather is bad) and pick up the pace.
5. swim
This low-impact form of cardio is a great way to get your heart rate up while protecting your joints. If you’re not confident in your swimming abilities, grab a board and swim a few lengths. This will not only work your legs, but also your abs.
6. Boxing
We can’t all be Rocky Balboa, but everyone can use boxing to stay healthy. 30 minutes of boxing can help you burn around 400 calories.
7. Take a trampoline
If you have a huge, bouncy trampoline in your backyard, great. Jumping and playing is not only good for your health, it’s also fun! If you do not have a huge trampoline, do not deprive yourself of this possibility. You can get a compact trampoline to keep in your apartment. Putting on your favorite songs and running or jumping in the same place can be just as effective.
8. The bike
There are many ways to incorporate this type of cardio into your day. Replace your car with a bike on your next grocery shopping trip. Replace the treadmill with an exercise bike the next time you visit the gym. Take a bite of the action and try the indoor cycling studio you’ve been looking for for six months, or buy a training bike so you can ride your road bike right in your home or garage.
9. Hiking
Do you like the outdoors? Hiking can be the perfect way to improve your heart health. Being active outdoors will not only increase your cardiovascular capacity, but also your emotional well-being.
10. Rower
Do you think rowing is for those who want pumped up biceps? Think again! Incorporating the rowing machine into your gym routine can give you an extra cardiovascular boost, while also strengthening your abdominal and back muscles. If you have never tried it, challenge yourself.
11. Hula Hoop
Sure, you probably haven’t since the last kids’ birthday party you went to, but why not? By swinging, you’ll increase your heart rate and improve your core strength. And don’t worry, they come in adult sizes.
12. Walking
You may be wondering if walking counts as cardiovascular exercise. Clear ! This is a great starting point for people who have never exercised before. Even a 10-minute walk can put you on the path to better heart health. Experienced people also benefit from it.
13. Bungee jumping
If you haven’t since high school gym class, you’re missing out! This no-equipment activity can get your heart rate up in no time. Plus, it’s easy to do, wherever you are. Start skipping first thing in the morning, when you need a break from your desk, or while you’re waiting for your dinner to finish cooking.
14. Stairs
Climbing stairs is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping and your body sweating. Find a park with a long flight of stairs, or just a stairway in a nearby building. Any escalation will do.
to retain
There is no denying that cardiovascular exercise is a key part of a long and healthy life. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy to make cardio a regular routine. Just remember that if you keep an open mind and get creative, there are plenty of ways to get your heart pumping. You don’t have to feel confined to the treadmill.
The most important part of any fitness program is finding what appeals to you. You’ll be much more likely to stick with a program if you really like it. So experiment, try new things, and find ways to break a sweat.
* HealthKey strives to convey health knowledge in a language accessible to all. In NO EVENT can the information provided replace the opinion of a health professional.
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