Cardio Exercise

It's what you do down the gym or when running for the bus. Cardio exercise (or Cardiovascular exercise for it's full title) is one of the best ways to lose weight.

This is even more pronounced when done in conjunction with certain Diet Plans.

In fact in the gym, cardio exercises will be what most people gravitate to (think treadmills, exercise bikes, rowers) rather than the free weights.

The Cardiovascular System is defined as 'The heart and the blood vessels by which blood is pumped and circulated through the body', and cardiovascular exercise - or cardio - targets this area of the body during exercise. To target the cardiovascular system you must ensure that you are exercising at your target heart rate.

Benefits of Cardio Training

Increases calorie burn
Weight Loss
Reduces the risk of heart disease
Increased lung capacity
Reduced blood pressure
Prevents diabetes
Burns body fat
Increase metabolism (see BMR)
Strengthens the cardiovascular system
Strengthens the immune system
Lowers stress levels

Examples of Good Cardio Exercises

There's a complete range of cardio exercises that are easy to assimilate into a simple work out plan :

Swimming
Power walking / treadmill
Cycling
Skipping / Jump roping
Jogging
Aerobics
(any exercise that keeps your heart rate in the target heart rate zone)

Check out the increase your stamina exercise section for cardiovascular exercises that you can do in your own home to improve your stamina.