Is Your Cardio Working? How to Take It Up a Notch
By Genevieve Cunningham
Cardio is an important part of any workout routine. Though you don't have to do cardio every day, you'll definitely want to keep it up on a regular basis. Cardio helps you build endurance and can also help you lose weight. But what happens when you hit a cardio plateau? How do you take your routine up a notch in order to earn the benefits again? If you need to make your cardio a little more intense, take a look at these ways to make your cardio work for you once again.
Go Faster
Are you really going as fast as you can? Or have you slowed down over the past few months? A lot of people tend to go more slowly once they become accustomed to their routine. And if this is happening to you, it might be time to simply go faster. If you're a runner, then sprint. If you like to walk, then try jogging. The same can be said for a bike, an elliptical, or any other form of cardio. Just take the speed up a notch, and you may see the difference that you've been looking for.
Change It Up
Sometimes your body just needs to change. If you've been doing the same kind of cardio for a long period of time, maybe it's time to make a change. And it doesn't have to be a change that sticks permanently, but can instead be a temporary change to confuse your body. If you usually like to ride a bicycle, why not try jogging? If you like to jog, take up swimming. Sometimes changing up your routine can confuse the muscles enough that they have to work extra hard and are challenged in different ways. This may be all you need to get your cardio back on track.
Incorporate Weights
Weights are an incredible addition to any workout routine. And if you add them to your cardio routine, they can make a serious impact on changing your body. Try adding ankle weights, dumbbells in your hands, or do some dynamic moves with kettlebells. The weights will increase the intensity as well as the resistance. Chances are good that by adding weights, you will significantly improve your routine, and you'll start seeing changes in your body rather quickly.
Cardio is great for the body. It can also be a lot of fun. But if your cardio has seemingly stopped working, maybe it's time to make some small changes to get it moving again. Use these steps to change up your routine, and you may be able to get your cardio and your health back on track in no time.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Johns Creek, Ga.