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What are the benefits of cardio exercise?

Kristy Lee Wilson - Sharecare Fitness Expert
Kristy Lee Wilson - Sharecare Fitness Expert on behalf of Sharecare Fitness
Fitness
answer
There are many benefits, both physical and psychological, of cardiovascular exercise. Cardiovascular exercise helps strengthen your heart and lungs. It contributes to weight loss and weight maintenance, helps decrease body fat, reduces stress levels and decreases daily fatigue. Regular cardiovascular exercise also helps decrease the risk of many chronic health conditions such as coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, certain cancers, obesity, high blood pressure, and depression.
National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer
There are many benefits of cardiovascular training. It helps to increase VO2 max, stroke volume, cardiac output, and oxidative capacity of muscle as well as decrease resting and exercise heart rates and blood pressure. Overall, it makes your heart and lungs more efficient so that they can perform better without having to work as hard.
Todd Townes - Sharecare Fitness Expert
Todd Townes - Sharecare Fitness Expert on behalf of Sharecare Fitness
Fitness
answer
The benefits of cardio exercise are many and affect physical and psychological components of everyday life. Some of the benefits are:
  • Weight Loss
  • Aerobic Capacity (stronger heart and lungs)
  • Reduced Stress
  • Lower Risk of Heart Disease
  • Improved Confidence/Self esteem
  • Better Sleep Habits
  • Increased Bone Density
  • More Energy

These are just some of the many benefits of cardiovascular exercise. I guarantee that adding a quality cardio program to your life can only change you for the better. From the family fitness perspective, starting down this path is a great model for kids looking to stay active as they get older. 
Wendy Batts
Wendy Batts on behalf of Sharecare Fitness
Fitness
answer
Cardio exercise has a lot of benefits that contribute to mental and physical health. They include:
Decreasing:
  • Daily fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Coronary artery disease (CAD)
  • Hypertension
  • Non−insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus
  • Cancer
  • Osteoporosis
  • Obesity
Increasing:
  • Flexibility (potentially)
  • Work, recreational, and sports performance
  • Sense of well-being
  • Blood lipid profile
  • Insulin sensitivity
  • Glucose tolerance
  • Immunity
Remember to begin slowly, pace yourself and always consult your physician before increasing your activity level.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.