Maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system is key to health as well as fitness.

This feature introduces my Crazy Cardio section, where I will show you some fun cardio exercises that you can do anywhere and that can be introduced as a warm up or as a main part of a workout within a circuit program. Everything that I demonstrate can be done anywhere and any time.

More Challenge

Some of the exercises will be more challenging than others so it is important to emphasise that you should adopt a cardiovascular program that is matched to your current level of fitness and then start to push yourself over the weeks and months. Remember to always check with your GP where necessary before starting an exercise program.

Other Great Famouslyfit Features

I suggest that you take a look at Ann Mather’s feature “Are You Working Too Hard To Get the Most from Your Cardiovascular Training”. This feature introduces you to the different training zones, which are important depending on what you are trying to achieve through your own workout.

I also suggest that you take a look at Stephen Holmes´ feature “Components of Fitness” which highlights the fact that Cardiovascular fitness is considered the most important since it feeds and supports all other elements of fitness.

What Does “Cardio” Mean?

The term ‘Cardio’ is an abbreviation of Cardio respiratory which is the term for the Cardio respiratory System .

The Major Functions of the Cardio respiratory System

• To deliver oxygen and nutrients to active muscles at the required rate.
• To remove carbon dioxide.
• To regulate body temperature by increasing blood flow to the skin
• To deliver hormones to their target organs.

Maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system is therefore key to health as well as fitness.

The Importance of Variety

However, it is only when wanting to burn off stored fat and lose weight that most people start to look to cardio training. Undoubtedly, cardio training helps with weight control, and should always be combined with resistance training (e.g. using weights) which not only keeps muscles strong and lean, but raises your metabolism. Cardio and resistance training should always go hand in hand adding variety to your training program, and should be back by a healthy nutrition plan.

Types of Cardio Training

There are loads of different types of cardio exercises you can do – you don’t need to be in a gym to do them. Some other Cardio exercises that you also may like to do are

Running – (make sure you have good running shoes)
Cycling – (Obviously you’ll need a bike)
Swimming – ( I would recommend your local swimming centre or health club rather than the nearest lake)
Skipping – (preferably with a rope but you can always pretend if you don’t have one)
Walking – (No excuses for this one)

Ok, so I hope that you will enjoy my cardiovascular workouts in my Crazy Cardio program.

Lee x