Aerobic exercise, also called cardio or cardio training, is a form of exercise with continuous and rhythmic movement of large muscle groups that intensifies the heart rate. It’s a good way to build and maintain cardiovascular health and burn calories. You can do it for short periods or continuously for 30 – 60 minutes. Here are the health benefits of aerobic exercise
Aerobic exercise burns fat cells
Fat isn’t the unhealthy component of your body; it’s just a storage mechanism for energy. When your body is deprived of enough nutrients, it begins to break down its own fat stores for energy. The result is more calories than your body can use, which leads to weight gain and increased risk factors for heart disease. Exercise can help prevent this from happening by burning through stored fat cells and promoting better overall cardiovascular health.
It helps to boost insulin levels in the bloodstream
Insulin is a hormone the body uses to help regulate blood sugar levels after a meal or after exercising. When you eat a high-carbohydrate meal, your blood sugar levels rise significantly. This triggers the release of insulin, which works to bring blood glucose levels back to a lower level. However, when your body is exposed to the same high-carbohydrate foods day after day, it can become less responsive to insulin’s effects. A lot of people struggle with blood sugar management, and certain types of exercise can help. Aerobic exercise improves your body’s responsiveness to insulin, which cuts down on cravings for sweets and other sugary foods.
It helps to increase HDL cholesterol levels
HDL cholesterol is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess fat from your arteries. This helps reduce the risk of heart disease. Burning fat helps raise HDL levels, so aerobic exercise makes your body more likely to burn fat. Not only does this protect against heart disease and diabetes, but it also puts less strain on your heart.
It helps to reduce stress and increases production of endorphins
According to the American Heart Association, 40 million Americans don’t get enough physical activity each year, which can lead to chronic stress and other health problems. In addition to decreasing your risk of heart disease and diabetes, regular exercise increases production of endorphins in the brain that promote feelings of well-being and happiness. Not only does this help you manage depression and anxiety, but it also reduces feelings of stress and promotes better sleep. Of course, you don’t have to exercise as part of your daily routine to reap the benefits!
If you’re interested in aerobic exercise, it can be easier than you think. Find a class or a workout routine that matches your fitness level and interests, then make exercise an important part of your daily life. It’s an important step toward maintaining a healthy lifestyle for years to come!
