Cardio
for Rookies
Zach Bashore
December 14, 2005
Weight
training is an important aspect of the bodybuilding process, but what about the
forgotten exercise commonly known as cardio. Cardio is just , if not more
important than weight training itself and should be at the top of every trainee's
to-do list. In this article, I am going to give you a run down on the
different types of cardio that can be done and the benefits of doing
cardiovascular exercise.
The definition of cardiovascular, according to dictionary.com, means
of, relating to, or involving the heard and blood vessels. Basically, anything
that elevates your heart rate to burn calories would be considered cardio. The
most important thing is to always be moving. A sedentary lifestyle will only
lead to obesity and you definitely don't want that, especially if you are
involved with fitness.
There are many positive benefits of doing cardiovascular exercise. Your mind
will benefit most because cardio helps reduce stress and keeps you in a positive
mental state. Not only that, but your body will be benefiting from an increased
lung capacity, higher metabolism, and increased blood flow to your brain.
If you have a job that keeps you active then there is no need to add more
cardio. However, some bodybuilders preparing for a contest do up to three hours
of cardio daily, so you will have to be the decisive factor and determine how
much cardio you need to do. Many people prefer jogging as its main source of
cardio because it is a quick way to get in a workout. Other people prefer
cycling, walking, or any other cardio option available.
The
debate on the best time to do cardio has been going on for years. One person
says you should train in the morning on an empty stomach, another says to
do cardio after your first meal, and then another person tells you to do cardio
right after you get done weight lifting. All of this information can become
confusing and cause you unwanted stress just trying to decide which time is the
best time to do cardio. Again, try them all and make a decision based on good judgment.
Don't be discouraged if you don't get everything right the first try,
just use your mistakes as a means for improvement. Until next time, Later.
(c) Copyright 2000 The Pumping Station