
While both terms are often used together to describe physical activity, they have very different meanings. In general, there are three types of impact when it comes to cardio workouts: high-impact, low-impact, and no-impact.īut before we go over the three types, it’s important to point out the difference between impact and intensity. However, it’s the activity type that will determine the level of impact. Types of CardioĪll cardio exercises should raise your heart rate and keep it elevated while working out.

Examples of anaerobic exercise include sprinting, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), plyometrics, and weight lifting. This type of cardio is performed at a high intensity for short periods.īecause there is an absence of oxygen, the body uses glycogen as fuel. Moderate to vigorous intensity activities like jogging, brisk walking, cycling, circuit training, swimming, or cardio machines qualify as aerobic exercise.Īnaerobic exercise, on the other hand, raises your heart rate but also starves the body of oxygen. In general, cardio or aerobic exercise increases your breathing and heart rate, but not to the point of being out of breath and needing to stop the activity. It’s also rhythmic in nature, recruits large muscle groups like the legs and glutes, and uses oxygen for energy.īeing able to maintain activity continuously for an extended period might be 20 to 60 minutes for someone with an average fitness level.Ĭardiovascular exercise is an example of aerobic activity. Related Cardio ResourcesĬheck out GymBird's robust cardio resources to find the best cardio exercises for you:Īerobic exercise is any exercise that raises your heart rate and keeps it elevated for an extended period.
Does brisk walking count as cardio how to#
This comprehensive guide goes over the difference between aerobic and anaerobic exercise, the different types of cardio, the health benefits of cardio workouts, examples of activities, and how to get started with cardio exercise. Of course, it takes some balance, but don’t worry we’ve got you covered. A primary goal of cardio exercise is to boost cardiorespiratory fitness by improving the heart and lungs ability to supply oxygen-rich blood to the muscles during sustained physical activity, according to the American Heart Association (AHA).Ĭardio workouts are great for burning calories and protecting your heart health, and they may even give your mental health a boost.Īnd the best part? You can do cardio activities just about anywhere.Īnd while finding time to fit in work, family, social obligations, and now exercise seems overwhelming, it can be done. You may also hear it referred to as aerobic exercise. But what is cardio?Ĭardio is any form of exercise that gets your heart pumping faster.

Whether your goal is to improve heart health, lose a few pounds, or simply get your body moving, incorporating cardiovascular exercise into your routine is a great place to start. If you’ve recently started working out, you might be wondering what the hype around cardio is all about.
