Fitness
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What are the Best Tips About Cardio for Beginners?

Felicia Dye
Felicia Dye

Cardio is an important type of exercise. Many people are unaware that it is one of the best types of physical activity for weight loss. Furthermore, it provides numerous health benefits, such as strengthening the heart and lungs. However, there are several cardio for beginner tips that people should consider when they begin exercising. These include recognizing the importance of warming up and cooling down and choosing enjoyable activities.

If a person takes fitness classes, she is likely to notice that each session generally begins with a thorough warm-up session. However, she may notice that people who exercise on their own often skip this step. Consistently warming up is one of the first cardio for beginners tips a person should learn. Warming up prepares the body for the activities that will follow, which allows a person to have more endurance. It also helps to reduce the likelihood of injury while engaged in the main cardio workout.

Woman exercising
Woman exercising

A period for cooling down needs to be allotted at the end of a cardio workout. This is another of the cardio for beginners tips that is noticeable when professionals are present but often skipped by individuals. The purpose of cooling down is to gradually decrease your heart rate instead of experiencing a sudden reduction. It also prepares the body to return to regular activity so a person does not experience cramps or sore muscles when she does so.

When a person is exercising, she should build the intensity of her workout. Even when a person warms up, it is still best not to start off at peak intensity. She is more likely to burn out quickly and may experience soreness from overexerting herself too quickly.

Cardio is for everyone. This is a cardio for beginners tip that is especially important for men. Males commonly avoid cardio workouts, viewing them as feminine exercises. Instead they focus on tasks such as weight lifting or other strength training. However, the benefits of cardio activities are beneficial for everyone and may not be achieved from other types of activities. Not only should everyone engage in cardio routines, they should do so regularly.

Many tips regarding cardio for beginners offer mixed messages on two topics: which activities and how long. Generally, the best cardio activities are those a person enjoys and will be motivated to engage in regularly. However, to maximize on the benefits of these exercises, it is best to engage in exercises that employ resistance or the use of body weight. With regards to time, it is best for beginners to workout for a minimum of 25 minutes and a maximum of an hour.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Woman exercising
      Woman exercising