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Cardio Exercise

It's what you do down the gym or when running for the bus. Cardio exercise (or Cardiovascular exercise for it's full title) is one of the best ways to lose weight.

This is even more pronounced when done in conjunction with certain Diet Plans.

In fact in the gym, cardio exercises will be what most people gravitate to (think treadmills, exercise bikes, rowers) rather than the free weights.

The Cardiovascular System is defined as 'The heart and the blood vessels by which blood is pumped and circulated through the body', and cardiovascular exercise - or cardio - targets this area of the body during exercise. To target the cardiovascular system you must ensure that you are exercising at your target heart rate.

Benefits of Cardio Training

  • Increases calorie burn
  • Weight Loss
  • Reduces the risk of heart disease
  • Increased lung capacity
  • Reduced blood pressure
  • Prevents diabetes
  • Burns body fat
  • Increase metabolism (see BMR)
  • Strengthens the cardiovascular system
  • Strengthens the immune system
  • Lowers stress levels

Examples of Good Cardio Exercises

There's a complete range of cardio exercises that are easy to assimilate into a simple work out plan :

  • Swimming
  • Power walking / treadmill
  • Cycling
  • Skipping / Jump roping
  • Jogging
  • Aerobics
  • (any exercise that keeps your heart rate in the target heart rate zone)

Check out the increase your stamina exercise section for cardiovascular exercises that you can do in your own home to improve your stamina.