Carve A Better Body With Cardio
January 21st, 2008 Posted by: Aldrich Cusens
Feeling a little insecure with your physique? Do you wonder if other people are judging you because of how you look? If your body is out of shape, your self-esteem can be taking a plunge, too.
If you ever feel this way, it’s important to know that you are definitely not alone. In fact, many people share your fears of being judged or limited by physical condition and appearances.
Are you ready to make a change? First, you need to answer a very important question: are you content to keep on the same old routine of doing nothing to help yourself, or would you prefer to make the changes and do the work required to build your better body?
The most important personal commodity that you have is your self confidence. The more confidence you exude, the easier it will be to reach your full potential. Even the most confident people can find a little room for improvement. By reinventing yourself and uncovering a brand new you, it can give provide more confidence to face all of the world’s complexities and hardships. Give yourself a fighting chance by pampering and treating your body and spirit better than you ever have before.
One of the most important steps to self-improvement is to develop your health and physique. Choosing a healthy exercise or program like cardio is an excellent way to accomplish this.
It’s very important to consult with your doctor before you begin any new exercise program. Once you’re ready to begin, keep the following considerations in mind:
1. Take small steps for big results. Start off small, and then gradually increase your cardio exercise sessions.
2. Feed your body. Unless advised by your doctor, never do a cardio workout on an empty stomach.
3. Because of the way that the body responds to cardio exercise, it is important to keep cardio going for at least 30 minutes. It must be done in moderate or high intensity.
4. Stretch before exercising. Your muscles should always be gently stretched to prepare them for an exercise regime. Be sure to stretch your calves, hamstrings, and quadriceps to avoid injury.
5. Know what your target heart rate is and be sure to monitor your heart rate regularly, such as during breaks, or in between sessions.
6. Vary your workout. If you become bored with the cardio routine, you’ll be inclined to give it up. Avoid boredom with different forms of cardio such as martial arts, rowing, and running. Keep it fun and exciting.
7. Vary the intensity of your workout. High intensity cardio should be done for approximately forty percent of the session, and moderate intensity cardio is best after you’re halfway through the routine. Don’t end on a high note, but exercise at a slow, easy pace for the last ten percent of your cardio session. This will help to condition your muscles to stop exerting too much effort.
8. Weigh your options. If you plan to perform both cardio and weightlifting, you should always maintain an interval of 8 hours between workouts. Your muscles need adequate rest in order to keep up with all of life’s activities. Remember to feed your body with the fluids and nutrients that are used while you’re working out.
When you follow these tips, you can improve your level of fitness and appearance. Best of all, you’ll soon improve your self-esteem and confidence!
