How Much Cardio Should You Really Be Getting In Each Week?
Since it is the start of a new year, many of us, more than usual, are thinking about fitness. While there are a variety of workouts that can be done, we have always heard that regular cardio should be incorporated.
The benefits from this regular activity include improvements when it comes to the function and health of the brain, joint, and organs, a boost in moods, better circulation, and getting needed rest each night, as stated by Cleveland Clinic.
With busy schedules and on-the-go lifestyles, many trainers, apps, gyms, and programs offer short exercise routines that allow you to work super hard for a shorter period of time. In particular, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been on the rise, combining short periods of intense moves with recovery periods (that are used to rest or do easier moves). This leads to burning more calories in less time and boosting strength, endurance, and metabolism (via Live Science).
The answer has to do with your workout's level of intensity
We can surely all agree that cardio is beneficial, but how much should we really be doing each week?
The recommendation from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is doing moves with a moderate intensity at least 150 to 300 minutes each week. With the popularity of HIIT workouts, there are also "significant health benefits" when it comes to these shorter "high-intensity workouts performed on a consistent basis," as Dr. Robert Parisien of Mount Sinai discussed with Bustle.
And the good news is that it doesn't have to be accomplished through running, which is what we tend to picture, when thinking of cardio. As listed out by Healthline, these workouts can include jumping rope, dancing, playing sports, swimming, boxing, riding a bike, hiking, rowing, climbing stairs ... The list goes on and on. As long as you are getting your heart rate up a few times each week (whether that be through moderate activity done for a longer period of time or intense activity done for a shorter period of time), you are going to see results and improve your overall wellness.