January 2007January 2007
These Tips Will Improve Your Cardio Workout
Start small with cardio, and increase gradually (weekly). This way if you are dieting you will not eat away at your hard-earned muscle.
Each cardio session should not be done exactly the same. Vary your forms of cardio, whether it is running, rowing, martial arts, and so on. This way it will not be boring (for those who really hate cardio) and your body will be constantly challenged.
Always stretch your muscles before exercising. See our article for more information at http://www.randomosity.com/aeroSAFETY.htm#4
Vary the intensity during your cardio. Start with a short walk for a warm up, go into moderate, then high intensity, then reduce it down to moderate, and end the session with an easy pace for cool down.
It is very important to know your target heart rate (THR). If you exercise too hard, or not hard enough, then you won’t get the maximum benefits (like burning fat as energy). You must be in your target heart rate for at least 12 minutes. See our article from March 2005 for details at http://www.randomosity.com/march05.htm
To get the most out of your heart and lungs: Take deep breaths and exhale all the way. For a more challenging workout: Get your arms really moving. For a more fun workout: Play upbeat music!
For a safe workout: Wear shoes.
For a more challenging workout: Control every movement of your body.
CAUTION Aerobic exercise:
Watch your feet and if possible use a mirror to watch your form. Slouching can diminish your lung capacity and put stress on the back and hips. Plant your entire foot firmly on the floor, don't exercise on your tippy-toes.