Carve a Better Body with Cardio
By: Terence Uniacke
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 can identify with this it is important to realize that you are not the only one who feels this way. The fact is that there are many people who feel they are judged or limited by their appearance and physical condition.
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?
Your self confidence is among the most important commodities that you have. When you exude more confidence, you'll find it much easier to achieve your full potential. Everyone has a little room for improvement. Reinventing yourself and coming up with a brand-new you might just give you the confidence to face the hardships and complexities that the world can present. Don't be afraid to pamper and treat yourself to the life you deserve.
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.
Before starting a new cardio program, be sure to visit your doctor. To increase the effectiveness and productivity of your cardio sessions, here are other valuable considerations to keep 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. Work in thirty minute increments. If you work out for less than thirty minutes, you body may not respond the way you want it to. You're your cardio going for at least 30 minutes, at a moderate or high intensity.
4. Prepare your muscles. You need to stretch the muscles to get them ready for exercise. Always stretch your calves, hamstrings and quadriceps.
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. Keep it fun. Vary your cardio workout regularly to avoid boredom. Try different forms of cardio workouts such as rowing, martial arts, running and other activities to keep your program fun and exciting.
7. Vary the intensity of your workout within the session. For example, use a slow or easy pace for the last 10 percent of the cardio session. This will help to condition the muscles to stop exerting too much effort. High intensity cardio should be done for approximately 40%, and moderate intensity cardio is best when done half of the entire exercise session.
8. If you wish to use both cardio and weightlifting you should always maintain an interval of 8 hours between workouts. Your muscles require rest in order to keep up with the rest of your activities. Also, your body requires nutrients and fluids to replace what is used in a workout.
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!