There are literally thousands of different ways to be active, stay fit, and be healthy. These can be defined into different types, dependent on the effect they have on the body.
For example, lifting weights will strengthen and tone the muscles. Performing yoga will also tone and strengthen the body while also improving breath control and flexibility. One of the most critical forms of exercise is cardiovascular exercise.
Cardiovascular, or aerobic, exercise can range in intensity and needs oxygen to meet the body’s energy requirements. If you intend to engage in cardiovascular exercise, be sure to discuss your plans with your doctor first to be sure your body and your overall health are up for this great challenge.
One research study, titled “Exercise: The ultimate treatment to all ailments?” determined that “The strong assets of regular moderate exercise are its free availability at low cost and its simultaneous benefits for preventing and improving several cardiac diseases.” Meaning, better health through activity is within reach for all of us.
To genuinely be considered cardiovascular exercise, the activity you are doing should raise your heart rate and breathing rate for at least ten minutes. This activity can be walking at a brisk pace, dancing, swimming, a fitness class, or a bike ride.
Check online for charts for heart and breathing rates that are appropriate for your age. Or, there are many heart rate apps available that you may wish to try.
Improve Your Overall Health
- Decades of research have demonstrated that regular aerobic exercise can provide us with healthier hearts.
- Regular exercise may reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and lower your heart disease and stroke risk.
- Other benefits of regular cardiovascular exercise are preventing and controlling the risk factors for certain types of cancer, obesity, osteoporosis, and Type 2 diabetes.
I know from personal experience that a solid workout eases my mind and releases tension. I also feel energized and ready to take on new challenges.
Studies show that regular exercise, including cardiovascular exercise, can ease the symptoms of depression. Exercise does just as much for my mind as it does for my body and is one factor contributing to me being the best I can be.
Improve Your Body Composition
- Keep the caloric burn fresh by adapting your training often; change up your equipment, change up your form of movement, and change up your intensity.
- This will build your lean muscle mass while reducing the fat mass you carry on your body.
For example, in one week, try a swimming session, one or two sessions of circuit training, a hike, a run, and get your bike out on the road.
Keeping it fresh also keeps your mind and spirit engaged, which keeps you motivated and more likely to stay active.
There’s More!!!!
- There are many physical and mental benefits associated with cardiovascular exercise, and because these benefits prevent life-threatening diseases, they garner a great deal of attention with good reason.
There are, however, many other benefits to getting your move on.
- By getting your heart and breathing rates up for at least 10 minutes a day (preferably 30 minutes every day), you will realize many other improvements in your life.
- You may find that you sleep better, which means less tossing and turning and waking up more refreshed.
- Friends and family may comment that your posture is improved, and you may find that your balance is more robust.
- You will notice that your stamina is enhanced as you go about your day-to-day activities.
You may feel that you have a new outlook on life, one that is more energized, more positive, and more engaged. Your new activities may reveal exciting parts of your community to you, and you can learn new skills too!
See what aerobic exercise can do for you!