Cardio Exercises
Hands down, cardio exercises are the most accessible of all types of exercise. They can be done in virtually any climate or geographic situation. They typically require no equipment other than a good pair of supportive shoes or a well fitted swim suit. And cardio exercises can be adjusted to whatever fitness level a person is at very easily.
The safest forms of cardio for most people are walking or swimming. Both of these are easier on the joints than other cardio exercises like running or high-impact aerobics. Overweight or obese individuals should consider walking or swimming over higher impact activities to ease the stress on their already stressed joints. As their bodies get more in shape and their cardiovascular health increases, we encourage them to push themselves harder and farther. Always with the guidance and advice of their health care professionals of course. When you are ready to take your walking to the next level, there are several popular walk-to-run programs available that can ease you into running.
Other ways to fit cardio exercise into your day include 2 minute cardio sets in between weight bearing exercises. Popular choices for these 2 minute sets include jumping jacks, step ups, burpees, or jumping rope. These really should be considered mandatory for anyone serious about improving their health, metabolism, and physique.
If you prefer to do cardio in a way that can be measured more precisely, then you should consider using one of several machines now available.
The Arc Trainer is a low-impact machine (which means it great for people with joint issues) that combines the movements of an elliptical and stair stepper into a single machine. It also has an upper body component that means you will burn even more calories.
Elliptical and Elliptical Cross Trainers are both another low-impact, high results machine that can be used to track fitness. Even the most basic models of these can track distance, cardio, steps per minute, and heart rate. Start wearing your own heart rate monitor and the results will be even more specific. Plus, you will be able to take them with you when you walk away from the machine.
If you need to, you can also choose to use an Upright Cycle, Recumbent Cycle, or Hybrid Cycle. Because these are no-impact machines you will see people of all ages using these regularly at the gym. Do not be fooled if most of the people on the machines have gray hair though. They are still getting a quality cardio workout without causing any damage to their joints.
Finally of course, is the good old stand-by, the treadmill. These are easy to use and do not require the same balance as some of the machines mentioned earlier. Plus, on these machines you can manipulate the incline and pace, something you just cannot do to the sidewalk that meanders past your house.
