Are you having a hard time squeezing in your recommended 150 minutes of cardio per week? You're not alone. Many people avoid cardio because it seems too complicated, dull, or difficult to fit into their schedule. But you aren't excused—finding ways to be more active is essential for your mental and physical well-being, whether you're trying to lose weight, gain mobility, or increase longevity.
Fortunately, cardio doesn't have to be miserable or time-consuming. The more you enjoy an activity, the more likely you will stick with it. So go ahead, try something new, and see how amazing a cardio workout can be!
A cardio workout is any type of activity that gets your heart beating faster for an extended period of time. This causes you to breathe harder than when you are resting, which brings more nutrient-rich oxygen into your body, which your heart pumps out to your blood.
Cardio workouts can be a form of aerobic exercise, which refers to your body's enhanced oxygen use for energy production. Workouts like running, walking, cycling, swimming, and dancing are aerobic because they use oxygen as a primary energy source for an extended period. This contrasts with anaerobic exercise, which uses glucose instead of oxygen as a primary energy source. Anaerobic workouts entail short bursts of energy, such as strength training and HIIT workouts. These workouts tear muscles and rebuild them, leading to muscle growth.
Regardless of whether you pursue aerobic or anaerobic workouts, you will get many of the same benefits of cardio fitness:
A dance workout provides many benefits by building cardiac strength, burning fat, and keeping your brain active. You'll also work on balance, flexibility, and breathing. Don't worry about getting the moves perfect – dancing is a form of expression, and impromptu "solos" are always welcome at Cajun Fitness's dance classes. Let the music move your mind and body as you dance away your worries (and extra calories).
Love music but are not a huge fan of dancing? Les Mills Cardio could be the perfect class for you. This high-intensity class will work your entire body with a playlist of songs devoted to working specific muscle groups. Get a full-body workout that torches calories and melts stress in 60 minutes.
Short on time? High-intensity Interval Training (HIIT) class might be just what you need. Our 30-minute Sprint class uses cycle training to help you get fit and toned. HIIT training includes short bursts of intense cardio (usually around 30 seconds) followed by brief rest periods. The structure is intended to keep your heart rate elevated sustainably and continue burning calories after the workout is completed
Cardio exercise is vital for overall health regardless of age, background, or goals. Finding fun ways to incorporate cardio into your life will keep you more active and ensure you get the most out of every workout. Contact us to learn more, or try us out with a free guest pass.
Cajun Fitness offers classes at all of our locations with early morning and late evening options. To learn more, you can call your nearest Cajun Fitness Center.
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