One of the common questions i get is how much cardiovascular exercise is enough? In answer to this question I would say it depends on what your goals are. For those who are just looking to stay healthy and get in a good day’s workout, I would follow the ACSM/American Heart Association’s recommendation of 30 min of cardiovascular exercise at a moderate intensity five days per week. For those who are looking for weight loss there are a lot of factors that play into your exercise regime, such as; how much you are eating, how hard you exercise, your metabolism and age, your fitness level, and your body fat percentage and weight. These factors aside, I would recommend 45-60 minutes of cardio at a moderate to vigorous intensity for 4-6 days per week. The most common thing that i see with my clients who are struggling with weight loss is they are underestimating the calories that they are intaking, and they think they are working harder than they are. I know that sounds kind of harsh, but it is true. You would be surprised at how hard your body can work when you push it! So, go ahead…Push it!
The bottom line here is our bodies were made to move! The benefits to cardiovascular exercise go way beyond weight loss. You will have more energy, sleep better, reduce stress levels, increase bone density, strengthen your heart and lungs, decrease chances of chronic disease and cancer, and on and on and on… For me exercise is a release. It’s my sanity! So, GO! Find something that you like to do and get movin’!!