Cardio can greatly assist in burning calories and weight loss. It does not necessarily need to be performed on a treadmill or stationary bike. Any kind of exercise that increases your heart rate and breathing rate can be used for cardio. Go for a walk outside and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Or catch up with friends over some recreational activities such as rock climbing or hiking. The options for cardio are endless.
What is HIIT?
HIIT, which stands for High Intensity Interval Training, is another form of training you can use in replace of regular low intensity cardio. This type of training allows you to burn more calories in a shorter time frame. The only downside is the risk to injury is higher so listen to your body and modify when needed.
Ensure you are warmed up by performing low intensity cardio for at least 5 minutes. Next you’ll be alternating between periods of maximum effort for 10-30 seconds. Follow this up with a short recovery anywhere between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Repeat this 5-8 times before cooling down for 5 minutes. You can apply HIIT to running, cycling or bodyweight exercises.
Nutrition is key
It is important that if you are performing cardio training during the week, you continue to eat the right amount of protein, carbs and fats in your diet. My Fitness Kitchn’s fresh premade fitness meals in Sydney will provide you with the energy to perform regular low intensity or HIIT cardio. This allows you to continue on with your daily tasks without feeling drained.
Do you need to perform low intensity cardio or HIIT to lose weight? No not necessarily, although if you find your weight loss begins to stall (which will eventually happen) even after eating less food, then it’s highly recommended you include cardio to continue your weight loss and move closer towards your goal.
Make sure you aid your weight lost with our fitness ready meals that are delivered in Sydney. Order from My Fitness Kitchn now and have our fitness ready meals delivered straight to your door.
-Jonathan
