Hey friends! How’s your Tuesday treating you so far?
Things have actually been pretty busy up in here today, so I’m quickly taking a break to chat and share a little something with all of you because I love ya so much.
The other day, I got an email from a reader who was telling me about how much she is totally hating on cardio right now. She said that she tends to go through phases (don’t we all?) and that right now, the thought of her jumping on a treadmill is probably right up with going to get a root canal.
Reading her email, I realized that I could definitely relate. Although I’m not doing a ton on the cardio front right now besides walking, I’ve definitely been at that point where the treadmill turns into the “dreadmill,” and I just can’t be bothered.
But the thing is…cardio doesn’t have to just be on the treadmill. Or running/walking for that matter! I think a lot of people tend to get to a place where they think that their cardio activities either have to be long or high-impact…so not true.
So I compiled a little list of 50 ways you can squeeze in some cardio today!
When it comes to making an activity “cardio,” there are two things to keep in mind:
1st – Intensity
An activity counts as cardio when you elevate your heart rate into an aerobic zone, which is 55% to 85% of your maximum heart rate. To calculate your target heart rate, start by doing 220 – your age.
- For example, I would do 220 – 28 = 192.
- 55% of that would be 105 (192 x .55 = 105)
- 85% of that would be 163 (192 x .85 = 163)
So my target heart rate is between 105-163.
Simply check your pulse or wear a heart rate monitor so you can be sure of which heart rate zone you’re working out in.
2nd – Time
Shoot for a minimum of 10-20 minutes per session, building up to a full hour over time. Also remember that your workouts can be spaced out throughout the day. 10 minutes in the morning, 10 in the afternoon, and 10 in the evening, and you’re good to go!
So now…what are some of your favorite ways to get your cardio on?
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