Be a Cardio Queen

Getting into a gym or workout routine is tough at first, especially if you haven't been involved in a regular exercise routine, or if you are new to the whole "gym scene". The quickest and easiest way to start a workout routine is by beginning with cardio.

Cardio or cardiovascular exercise involves the fitness of your heart. So, any machine or piece of equipment that gets your heart rate pumping would be considered a cardio machine or cardio workout. Think of treadmills, stationary bicycles, steppers, rowing machines and elliptical trainers. All these machines help to get your heart and lungs stronger, because they involve the use of large muscle groups to work together. For example, on the treadmill, stationary bicycle and stepper, you are primarily using your legs as the main muscle group, which result in getting the heart and lungs working harder, thereby increasing the flow of oxygen to the body. This continuous supply of oxygen generated by the lungs and heart provide the working muscles with the oxygen they need to keep going, thus strengthening the heart and lung muscles themselves.

When you start a cardio routine it is always advisable to start slow and as your fitness level increases, you can progress to the next level. Don't assume that because you were super fit back in high school, you can start off where you left off. Unfortunately, it does not work that way. If your fitness level is not maintained, it will decline. However, the good news is that it can be built up again; it just takes a bit of time, persistence and dedication.

Start your cardio routine by walking for five minutes on the treadmill to get your heart pumping and the blood flowing. After five minutes, if you feel up to it, increase the level by increasing the speed or increasing the incline level on the treadmill. Try to maintain that pace for at least two minutes. Keep increasing until you feel you are working out, but do not push yourself or you will only cause damage.

Once you have found your fitness level, aim to increase it by increasing the intensity of your workout ever week or every few days.

Aim to incorporate at least three days of cardio activity into your week. Ideally, you should alternate cardio with weight training exercise or circuit training, and your cardio sessions should not last for more than 60 minutes.

Copyright 2009: Remedium. This article may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Remedium.