Benefits of Cardio Exercise for Health

Cardio exercise and its benefit to health is no secret, although there is much debate as to how much cardio is really necessary to really feel the effects. There is certainly no doubt, however, that the benefits of cardio exercise range far and wide.

Firstly, cardio exercise and health is strongly linked to weight loss. Cardio is essential in losing weight, with experts recommending at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise up to five times a week. Depending on your size and diet, this could be increased to between an hour and 90 minutes. The benefits are obvious; a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes and strokes to mention a few; a clear link between cardio exercise and health benefits.

Cardio exercise is not all about weight loss though. There is a strong link between cardio exercise and health benefits in regards to stress levels and depression. Cardio exercise gives an outlet for pent up aggression and negative emotions, relieving stress, which many experts believe is paramount to our health and well being.

Our heart is a muscle and, just like any other, will strengthen with work. Cardio exercise and health benefits are strongly linked through the strengthening of the heart and lungs. Cardio activity increases blood flow and oxygen intake, reducing the risk of heart disease and strokes. It is thought sedentary people are five times more likely to die of heart disease than people who exercise regularly.

Cardio exercise can also improve sleeping patterns, with research suggesting people who exercise on a regular basis experience far few problems with insomnia and sleepless nights. The research suggests an increase in body temperature whilst exercising means later in the day, when the body temperature drops, sleep is easier and deeper.

The endorphins released during exercise also benefit our mental health. Along with the boost to self esteem exercise can offer, the temporary boost in happiness can combat stress and depression in the long term.

Finally, exercising regularly sets a great example to your children or younger siblings. If you exercise regularly and encourage them to do so as well, they are much more likely to follow in your foot steps and leave an active, healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, there are so many health benefits from cardio exercise, from weight loss to strengthening your heart. To achieve an effective cardio work out you should aim to be at 60% to 80% of your target heart rate for at least 20 minutes, four or five times a week. This can be achieved by running, cycling and swimming, along with other exercises. There are plenty of websites that will calculate target heart rates, so why not get started today?