Cardio exercise is different to aerobic exercise in that it works the body a little harder encouraging more calories to be burned. The best cardio exercise works the body towards the higher end of the target heart rate. This slightly higher intensity develops a greater physical fitness because the heart, lungs and the whole cardiovascular system must adapt to become stronger.
With a stronger and bigger heart more oxygenated blood, rich in nutrients and energy can be delivered to hard working muscles. A greater lung capacity allows us to exercise for longer durations without that common tired feeling after a workout. A stronger cardiovascular system means more capillaries innervating muscles which delivers more oxygen to each cell enabling them to burn more fat during both exercise and inactivity.
Although cardio exercise burns more calories is it tends to burn a higher percentage of carbohydrates whereas aerobic exercise will burn a greater percentage of fat. However on gaining fitness this can turn around, a fitter person with a resting heart rate of under 60 beats per minute may eventually burn a greater amount of fat even during a cardio exercise workout at a high pace.
Using cardio exercise to gain fitness has many benefits to help lose weight....
Burn fat more efficiently at lower intensities
Increased metabolism
Increased energy levels for more active lifestyle
Increased stamina
Faster recovery after exercise
Improved sleeping habits
Cope with every day stresses & strains
Reduction in moods and depression
The internets leading fitness expert can help develop fast, effective fitness programs!
The best cardio exercise is one which keeps the heart rate at about 80% of maximum for at least 15 minutes. Good examples are rowing, swimming, jogging or workouts that cause moderate sweating. Exercises such as weight training or sprinting are too intense and classed as anaerobic exercises. Its important to monitor target heart rate zone during exercise to keep within correct and safe limits.