Incorporating Cardio
The number one thing I personally hear people say when it comes to working out is that they do not like doing cardio. When you think of cardio most people think of running, going on the elliptical or stair stepper, cycling, swimming, etc. Due to the fact that so many people find these
activities unenjoyable, they opt out of incorporating any sort of cardio into their daily work out routine. Luckily most of us do cardio throughout the day without even realizing! It can be as simple as walking to class or getting the mail. However, there are an abundance of cardio options we are able to perform both in the gym and out to get our sweat on! Below are a few of
my personal favorite ways to get my cardio in for the day without it feeling like a drag!
Expanding Your Cardio Options:
● HIIT
○ If you are unfamiliar with the term HIIT it stands for high-intensity interval training. HIIT is a form of cardio training different from any other exercise I’ve done personally. HIIT reduces body fat and can help with weight loss! Although common forms of cardio aim to do the same thing, HIIT is a more effective and efficient form of fitness. High-intensity interval training helps you burn more calories faster while also allowing you to feel the burn a lot more than common forms of cardio. Click HERE to test out some great HIIT workouts you can do right from your home!
● Sprints
○ As discussed above, performing exercises at high intensity for a shorter period of time rather than performing at a moderate intensity for a much longer period of time is much more beneficial. This is due to the fact that when you are sprinting you are engaging more of your “fast-twitch” fibers which helps you burn more calories. At the same time, you are improving the definition in your leg muscles as well. Next time you step on the treadmill or go outside for a run, try sprinting instead of running! Click HERE to access a short and simple sprint workout!
● Swimming
○ One of the more simple options is to go for a swim! This may sound pretty basic, but a lot of people forget that swimming can actually be a great source of exercise; that is if you’re not sitting by the pool sipping a beverage! Next time you’re in a cardio rut go to your local gym or find a nearby lake and swim a few laps. It has been proven that swimming virtually works all the muscles in your body. So when I say it’s a great form of exercise/cardio, I mean it!
● Keep it Simple – dancing, walking, hiking, taking the stairs
○ My last cardio tip for you guys is to keep it simple! I think some of us often forget that cardio is in everything we do. If you haven’t found an option you have wanted to try throughout this blog then keep it simple. Your cardio can be as simple as walking around the block, taking the stairs over the elevator/escalator, going for a hike, or even dancing! Remember not to overthink and make it your own.
It is important to remember that cardio is not necessary and neither is working out or going to the gym. Take a day off if you need one, or even a week. The good thing about exercise is that you can go at your own pace. Just have fun with it!
Do not get discouraged.
Cora Shircel