Cardio Exercises

Cardio exercises are an important part of your anti-aging fitness program, or any fitness program. It increases the strength and efficiency of your heart and lungs. It raises metabolism and burns calories. It even reduces stress. The important part of beginning a cardiovascular exercise program is finding something you enjoy and will stick with.

Back in the 70’s during the jogging craze my brother and I decided that we needed to jog. After all, it was the “in” thing to do and we both thought we could use some exercise. So we chose a day to begin our jogging careers.

The day arrived and we met, enthusiastically putting on our running shoes and stretching – just like real joggers. Then we started off. We jogged down the road and around the block and ran for over half an hour. It was invigorating…and exhausting.

The next morning, we both decided that joggers we were not. And as quickly as our jogging career began – it ended. My sister on the other hand, enjoys jogging. She even bought a large dog several years ago so she would have someone to run with (since her siblings definitely weren’t going to join her).

I found that I get bored quickly, so I’ve put together an aerobic program that includes walking outside when the weather is nice and using videos inside that include kickboxing and dance. I also found 2 different exercise programs on TV in the morning. If I’m bored with one program or video, I choose another. The main point is that I enjoy it. So here are a few suggestions for your cardio workout.

Decide on a cardio exercise that you enjoy.

You may want to choose more than one in case you’re like me and get bored, or you need an alternative if the weather is poor.

➣ Walking is a great anti-aging exercise. Anyone can do it no matter your age. And there are great alternatives if the weather is bad. You can use a treadmill inside. You can go to the mall and walk – just be sure you don’t spend too much time window-shopping. It slows you down. There are also walking videos that you can use in your own home.

➣ Biking – If your knees are good, you may want to consider biking. I enjoy this as a change of pace on the weekends in summer. If you have a bike trail nearby this is a great exercise. It is also good for your leg muscles. If you haven’t biked for awhile, you may want to invest in a good seat or your “seat” may feel it when you are finished.

➣ Swimming – Another great exercise. If you have joint problems, swimming is a good exercise alternative. It is easy on the joints and can give a good workout. If you live near a health center or gym with a pool, you can swim year round. Just be sure to use a good moisturizer when finished since the chlorine in the pool can dry out your skin. I also use a hair protectant to protect my hair from the sun and chemicals.

➣ Dance – If you love to dance, why not keep it up. You may not be able to do this 3 times a week, but you can certainly add it to your exercise program. There are also some good dance workout videos available that you can use in your own home.

➣ Organized aerobic classes – If you would like the encouragement of others, a group class may be for you. There are many gyms, health centers and community recreation centers that offer classes. These can range from water aerobics to spinning classes and everything in between. But remember, if you sign up – be sure to go!

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