If you add a cardio workout to your existing weightlifting routine, then you may notice additional benefits. Weight-lifting is anaerobic and does not use the same energy system as cardio exercises. Cardio exercises are an important component that should never be forgotten when formulating a fitness plan. There are many different types of cardio exercises, and most people think of cardio as just a way to lose weight. However, it actually has many benefits for your body and overall health.
A Healthy Heart
The heart is a muscle just like the biceps or triceps, which means it needs to be worked to grow stronger. If you neglect to work your heart, then like your other muscles it will grow weak, resulting in unwanted, negative health related effects. Going for a run or some type of exercise that gets your heart rate up will help keep your heart healthy and in shape. Don’t neglect your heart — it is what keeps all of us going on a daily basis.
Strengthens Your Metabolism
Cardio exercises have a tremendously positive effect on your metabolism. Your heart rate isn’t the only thing that cardio exercises increase; other processes in the body are accelerated, resulting in a faster metabolism. The more intense your cardio exercise is, the more you will notice a change in your metabolic rate. An increased metabolism will make it easier to maintain your weight or lose weight if that is what you are trying to accomplish.
Improves Recovery Ability
Low to moderately intense cardio exercises can actually benefit you during the recovery process. After an intense weight-lifting session, if you take a light jog or walk on the treadmill this can help to remove some by-products that our bodies create during weight training. Cardio exercises can also reduce the delayed muscle soreness that most people experience, as well as allow the body to intake more oxygen rich blood. This oxygen rich blood will help in the repair and rebuilding process your muscles undergo. This will allow you to get back to the gym quicker, allowing you to work your muscles again.
As you become more comfortable with cardio exercises, you can incorporate more advanced routines into your fitness plan. Focus on building a strong cardio foundation at first. Fortunately, there are many different forms of cardio exercises, allowing you to switch up your routine day-to-day. Finally, remember to appreciate your body and take time to focus on how your body feels.
