Fit Tip: Kick Up the Cardio
I don't suggest doing your cardio in a ball gown and heels...
That's right kids, it's time to kick up the cardio and sweat it out. Bikini season may be over, but staying in shape is a year-round must. Cardio is one of the most important things you can do for your body. Not only does it make a difference on the inside (improving your cardiovascular health), you will see results on the outside too (especially if you stick to it 3 or 4 times a week).
Every week I work with my trainer, Jarett Del Bene. We always mix up my exercises, but one thing remains constant and that's the cardio element.
After a particularly grueling cardio session, I decided to take advantage of Jarett's expertise and asked him a few questions about cardiovascular exercise so I could share it with all of you... Check out my questions and his answers below!
Why is cardio so important?
Cardio is important because it strengthens your heart and therefore it does not have to work as hard to pump blood through your body.
How do you get the most out of each cardio session?
I suggest doing cardio in the morning before your first meal. Your body is most likely to use fat as the energy source because your glycogen stores are depleted. If you are concerned about muscle loss, take 15-25 grams of whey protein before your morning cardio session.
Any tips to make it a little easier?
Make a cardio playlist on your iPod to get you through the workout. Pick out your favorite songs that you love listening to so you forget about the time.
Aerobic exercise is also important for weight control and it is great for blasting fat. To avoid getting strung out on running, mix up your cardio routine as much as possible. There are plenty of fun cardio exercises such as kickboxing (which I love), bicycling, using the elliptical, swimming, and even step aerobics. This way you will keep you body guessing and your heart pumping!
My favorite cardio exercise is kickboxing. What's yours? (And you cannot say, "Shopping!")
XO Lauren
P.S. Let me know if you would like me to do a blog about kickboxing! And for more of my fun fitness ideas, click here.
Photo: weheartit
133 comments
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Would LOVE to hear some new ideas of ways to mix up cardio. I prefer the high intensity cardio for short a amount of time simply because I dont have much time to spend at the gym during the week. thanks!! =) -
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Running with my dog outside, hes huge so when i get tired he keeps me going (dragging me along on his jog) I try to spice it up by going on different trails and such seeing nature makes you feel pretty fresh and fit. -
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I love to power walk! Keep me in shape and does not drain me out!
Check out my beauty and motivational blog to find out my favorite inspirational quote and simple tip on lining your waterline!
Here is the link: http://www.beautytosparkle.blogspot.com/
Thanks, Dina
P.S. If you like what you see, please don't forget to follow :) -
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making a playlist for running is a great idea but its so hard to find enough songs that really get you motivated and energized !
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I love running and zumba! I'd love to get back into kickboxing though - the classes in my area stopped running last year :-(
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I love spinning class and bootcamps! I agree that switching up your workout is key to getting results!
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I love kickboxing too!! Yesterday was my first class of the year..I love the after feeling of working everything part of my body. :)
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can you do a blog on gym fashion? I hate super trendy workout clothes, but I LIVE in the gym. What can I wear to look cute, but still look like I mean business!?
I think you should create a fit line in addition to your LC brand at Kohls!
..just sayin..
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I do at least 30 minutes of cardio at least 3-4 times a week, (plus abs and free weights). I am not seeing a difference in my body! (My upperbody-arms, collar bone area, and especially my stomach). And I eat healthy! What can I do differently?
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This is awesome, cardio is one of the best exercises you can do!
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let me know if you follow my blog, ill check yours out too!! :)
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i currently go to the gym 3 x a week (even over Christmas! :)) there are a number of reasons why I go such as health and fitness, having that extra 'me' time and also for my hands and feet. I suffer such bad cold hands and feet, doctor has told me this is due to poor circulation, cardio has literally made it disappear!! I also have been doing pole dancing for 3 years, for fitness only. It is great for your core, strengthens your muscles, tones and most of all it's so much fun!! Especially when you go with a group of girly friends!
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oh great tips!! i def need to do more cardio. one of my resolutions is to run 3x a week : )
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spin class is awesome and a really good calorie burner. speed walking on the treadmill with a new magazine is by far my favorite though..it works your butt and calf muscles too!
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While cardio is important, weight trainingn is important as well. If you have more muscle mass (even lean), you burn more calories even when you're not moving.
I like taking long walks and swimming. I also run and do bikram yoga. I do not like the process of the last two, but I love the results.
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My fave cardio.... My treadmill + Lifetime Movie Network Channel. Time flies by when ur caught in the drama of the movie, and u have the treadmill set to change speeds and inclines on its own.
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dance dance dance! anything...zumba...latin ballroom...hiphop...but the best workout for your overall body (in my experience) is ballet. It whoops ur butt! Made me the dancer i am today and kept me in shape all throughout high school
-Rae<3
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