Cardiovascular exercise, commonly known as cardio, is a type of physical activity that gets your heart pumping and increases your breathing rate. It is one of the best ways to improve your heart health, as it helps to strengthen your heart muscle, improve your circulation, and lower your blood pressure.
Benefits of Cardio:
Improved heart health: Cardio helps to strengthen your heart muscle, which makes it more efficient at pumping blood. This can help to lower your blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.
Improved circulation: Cardio helps to improve your circulation, which means that your blood is able to flow more easily throughout your body. This can help to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your cells, and remove waste products.
Weight loss: Cardio can help you to lose weight, as it burns calories and helps to build muscle.
*Reduced stress:** Cardio can help to reduce stress, as it releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects.
Types of Cardio:
There are many different types of cardio exercises, including:
* Running
* Walking
* Swimming
* Biking
* Dancing
* Elliptical training
* Stair climbing
How Often Should I Do Cardio?
The American Heart Association recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardio per week. However, you can start with a shorter amount of time and gradually increase it as you get fitter.
How Hard Should I Work?
When you are doing cardio, you should be working at a moderate intensity, which means that you are breathing hard but you are still able to talk. If you are new to cardio, you may want to start with a lower intensity and gradually increase it as you get fitter.
Tips for Getting Started with Cardio:
* Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
* Choose activities that you enjoy, as this will make it more likely that you will stick with them.
* Find a workout buddy to help you stay motivated.
* Listen to music or podcasts to help you pass the time.
* Set realistic goals and don't be discouraged if you don't see results immediately.
Cardio is a great way to improve your heart health and overall fitness. By following these tips, you can get started with a cardio routine that is right for you.
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