Much to the chagrin of those wishing to be more physically active, cardio is an important part of the fitness routine. Cardiovascular exercise is necessary for a healthy heart. Most people, when they think of cardio, think of an elliptical machine, running laps, or insane routines like HIIT. However, cardio can simply be dancing, walking, climbing stairs, or cleaning.
Every time you choose the stairs over the elevator, you are getting cardiovascular exercise. Every time you clean your house, dance to music, or take a long walk outside, you are getting cardiovascular exercise.
The best ways to build cardio into your busy day is by making sure you are moving throughout the day. If you work at your computer all day, try standing up every hour and performing some fast squats, jumping jacks, or take a quick walk around the office. If you work in a building with many floors, take the stairs. Choose the option that will raise your heart enough to get your blood pumping.
Take a walk (alternate with fast walking to increase your heart rate even more)
Dance to your favorite music for 30 minutes
Give your room a good cleaning (depending how much you need to clean, this will increase your heart rate just through simple movement)
Walk up and down your stairs 4-6 times
Perform some office-compatible exercises (click here)
Try this Quick Blast workout
Try to build in some cardio at least twice a week. This will help increase oxygen throughout your body and increase endurance. I hope that this helps are you start another week. As always, feel free to share what works for you.
Until next time,
Amanda
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