Weight training is an important aspect of the bodybuilding process, but what about the forgotten exercise commonly known as cardio. Cardio is just , if not more important than weight training itself and should be at the top of every trainee`s to-do list. In this article, I am going to give you a run down on the different types of cardio that can be done and the benefits of doing cardiovascular exercise.

The definition of cardiovascular, according to dictionary.com, means of, relating to, or involving the heard and blood vessels. Basically, anything that elevates your heart rate to burn calories would be considered cardio. The most important thing is to always be moving. A sedentary lifestyle will only lead to obesity and you definitely don`t want that, especially if you are involved with fitness.

There are many positive benefits of doing cardiovascular exercise. Your mind will benefit most because cardio helps reduce stress and keeps you in a positive mental state. Not only that, but your body will be benefitting from an increased lung capacity, higher metabolism, and increased blood flow to your brain.

If you have a job that keeps you active then there is no need to add more cardio. However, some bodybuilders preparing for a contest do up to three hours of cardio daily, so you will have to be the decisive factor and determine how much cardio you need to do. Many people prefer jogging as its main source of cardio because it is a quick way to get in a workout. Other people prefer cycling, walking, or any other cardio option available.

The debate on the best time to do cardio has been going on for years. One person says you should train in the morning on an empty stomach, another says to do cardio after your first meal, and then another person tells you to do cardio right after you get done weight lifting. All of this information can become confusing and cause you unwanted stress just trying to decide which time is the best time to do cardio. Again, try them all and make a decision based on good judgement. Don`t be discouraged if you don`t get everything right the first try, just use your mistakes as a means for improvement. Until next time, Later.

Zach Bashore
December 14, 2005

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