Plenty of us know the benefits of cardiovascular exercise but hate it with a fiery passion. This is understandable. Doing burpees is unpleasant and running on the treadmill for hours feels monotonous. The good news is it doesn’t have to be like this. There are so many ways to get your heart rate up without getting bored or feeling nauseous. If you’re looking for entertaining ways to exercise then read below. You’ll learn how to reap the benefits of cardio without having to spend hours on boring machines.
Benefits of Cardio
Cardiovascular exercise refers to any activity that gets your heart rate up. Sometimes also referred to as aerobic exercise, it includes activities like rowing, swimming, running and skipping. There are countless reasons to make cardiovascular exercise part of your routine. People who regularly get their heart rate up have lower blood pressure and body fat compared to couch potatoes. Not only does it keep you looking lean, it also does wonders for stress levels. Aerobic exercise is scientifically proven to affect you on a neurochemical level. After a workout, your body releases natural painkillers called endorphins. This is why we feel so good after finishing a tough session. In addition to improving your mood, cardio also reduces your risk of diseases like dementia and keeps you sharp between the ears. You are less likely to have insomnia if you exercise often and more likely to live a long life. Basically you have to exercise regularly in order to be your best self. If you already do this then keep it up. However if you hate cardio then read below. There are plenty of fun ways to sweat. You just haven’t found the one yet.
Group Fitness
If you hate exercising alone and don’t want to have to think up your own sessions, try a class instead. It’s crazy how much harder we work when someone else is telling us what to do. This is why group fitness is so effective. You are more likely to push your boundaries when distracted by an enthusiastic instructor who is in charge of your workout. Exercising with others also fulfils our psychological need for social connection. Having a class at a set time means we can’t procrastinate or put off our session. You have to be there and once you’re done, you’re done. If you lack the discipline to do a home workout, sign up for a class instead. You’ll meet new people and it will be done before you know it.
Dog Walking
Not a fan of humans? Get a furry friend instead. Regular walks are beneficial for both your and your canine. Owners who don’t walk their dogs can actually be fined or go to prison. If you want to avoid jail time and reap the benefits of cardio, then grab the leash and pound the pavement. Bigger breeds are ideal if you want something dragging you along at pace. But even little pooches are sufficient motivation to get out for a stroll. Research shows that dog walkers have low blood pressure, stress and stronger bones than the average joe. Cardio doesn’t have to be hard and unpleasant. A simple stroll with man’s best friend can make a huge difference to your overall health.
Active job
If a dog doesn’t motivate you, maybe money will. Getting a physical job can provide all the exercise the average human needs. Factory workers do up to eight hours of activity per day and some employees clock up 16km of walking in one shift. A physically demanding job can have you burning over 3000 calories daily. Why spend an hour on the treadmill after work when you can get paid to move instead? There is high demand for physical labour in New Zealand at the moment. Office jobs tend to be boring, inactive and bad for your posture. Try some physically demanding work instead and kill two birds with one stone. Not only will you be increasing your activity levels but you’ll be making money while you do it. Jump on seek.co.nz now and look for a physically active role. Some options include hotel cleaning, construction, furniture moving or personal training. Your wallet might get fatter but you definitely won’t.
Get Competitive
If the previous suggestions aren’t your thing, what about sports? Getting fit is much easier when you gamify it. Google local sports teams or ask your friends if they’d like to start doing a social activity like tennis. Running is so much easier when you’re going after a ball. This strategy works well for those who have a competitive streak. Rather than thinking about calorie burn, your focus during the activity will be winning the game. We are not suggesting you have to pick an elite team or do anything too serious. There are plenty of social options out there that give you the opportunity to sweat while making new friends. Participating in sports has also been shown to boost self esteem and even improve your ability to problem solve. So what are you waiting for? Sign up for a nearby team or get your friends down to the basketball court. Sport is the best way to burn calories without realising it.
Conclusion
Dispel the myth that cardio has to be unpleasant in order to be effective. The best way to move is anyway you enjoy. Consistency is always better than intensity. Find something you don’t mind doing and exercise will no longer feel like a chore. Whether this be organised sports, a cheeky dog walk, physical work or group classes, do something active and do it often. Your life will be longer and lovelier as a result. Cardio? More like cardi-YO!