What is cardiovascular exercise?

Cardiovascular exercise refers to exercise that causes positive adaptations to the heart and lungs. There are many forms of cardiovascular exercise but they can be categorized into 2 groups: aerobic and anaerobic training. The difference between these 2 systems is the type of fuel used during training and the activities that are performed. Aerobic exercises, such as running or cycling for long durations, will use fats and glycogen stores for energy. Anaerobic exercises, such as sprinting and resistance training, will use mostly muscle glycogen for fuel.

The benefits of cardiovascular exercise are numerous. Here are just a few: increased muscular endurance, loss of fat, increased energy, greater well being and a decrease in anxiety and depression. Moreover, aerobic exercise increases the level of HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol), lowers blood pressure, improves immune system and helps protect the body against many ailments, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, and osteoporosis.

For more information on cardiovascular exercise seek professional advice from a personal trainer and follow the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) guidelines.

Moderate physical activity for 30 minutes a day, five days per week Or Vigorous physical activity for 20 minutes a day, three days per week

Moderate-intensity physical activity means working hard enough to raise your heart rate and break a sweat, yet still being able to carry on a conversation.

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Cardio - Washington State University