Aerobic exercise also known as “cardio” involves activities that increase your heart rate and keep it elevated for a long period of time
Aerobic activities improve the efficiency of your cardiovascular system, allowing for better blood circulation and oxygen delivery throughout your body. This improved circulation helps transport cholesterol to the liver, where it is broken down and removed from your body
Aerobic exercise may be just what you need, not only is it great for your heart health but it’s also a fun way to stay active.
Aerobic exercise is great for your health but if for some reason you can’t get to the gym, there are still plenty of aerobic exercises that can be done right at home that you can apply.
Here are some exercises and tips for aerobic exercise at home that you can try:
- Jump rope: Jumping rope is a high-intensity aerobic exercise that can burn calories quickly and improve cardiovascular health.
- Stair climbing: If you have stairs in your home, take advantage of them. Climbing stairs can increase your heart rate and strengthen your lower body effectively.
- No-equipment exercises: Simple exercises that don’t require equipment like jumping jacks, high knees and burpees can be done anywhere and provide great cardiovascular benefits.
- Online Aerobic Workouts: There are tons of online resources and videos that offer guided aerobic workouts for all fitness levels.
- Get into the Garden: Not only is gardening great exercise, helping you stay active and manage your weight, but studies have shown that it can also help you cope with stress and improve your mood. So consider getting out into your garden regularly to mow the lawn, pull weeds, or plant flowers or vegetables. If you don’t have your own green space, you could offer to help tend a neighbor’s garden or join a local community gardening group.
- Clean the house: Housework often involves bending, reaching, and stretching, and you can get even more active with a serious spring cleaning. Vacuuming, dusting, or cleaning that involves repetitive movements can help improve balance and tone muscles. To get better at your chores, try adding some lunges while using the vacuum or mop.
- Move for a spare minute: The few minutes it takes to boil water, finish a washing cycle, or even brush your teeth are perfect times to get more movement in. Try standing on one leg or sitting against a wall.
- Stay on your feet: You burn more calories standing than sitting, and you’ll also improve your balance. Try standing while you talk on the phone or walking in place while you watch your favorite TV show. You can even walk to do errands instead of driving.
- Dance while you do laundry: Dancing while you do a repetitive task like ironing or folding clothes can help improve your mood and increase your overall activity. Put on some music and move to the beat in whatever way feels comfortable to you. Or, add in a simple movement, like stepping to the side or marching in place.
