Fall into Fitness with Cardio

It seems like just yesterday we were writing to you, giving you inspiration on how to take your cardio outdoors for summer. And now, as if hardly any time has passed, we’re headed into the cool weather of fall. A change in the seasons almost always means a change of routine, but that shouldn’t stop your daily dose of fitness.

Now that kids are back in school and the day seems a bit more scheduled, it can feel easier to fit in a good workout. But, the question remains: what type of cardio do you want? It can feel nice to do something familiar, but there are always benefits, both physically and mentally, to mixing it up a bit. When it comes to cardio, there’s no end to the options available to you. So which one do you choose?

The great thing about having so many options is that you can find at least one thing to help you reach a specific fitness goal. Many people get into cardio for the heart health factor. Others are in it to lose weight or burn calories. And some are in it for the fun, mentally energizing component. No matter where you land, there is something for you.

Do you want to increase your stamina and find more endurance? No matter where you’re beginning, cardio can help to exercise your respiratory system so that it can function more efficiently. If you are starting from square one, walking is a great option. In fact, daily walks this fall will not only help to give your heart a workout, but will also help you to stay mentally sharp and fit all through the winter season. Walking is a wonderful, sustainable way to get movement in all stages of life. 

Jogging, running, cycling, and swimming are also great for increasing your stamina. While jogging and running are more impactful on the joints, they are quite accessible, and many people enjoy a good run in the morning hours. Cycling and swimming, however, could be a bit easier on the knees, ankles, and other at-risk joints. Hancock Wellness Centers offer indoor pools that are accessible for the early morning swim you need to start your day off right.

If you want to get the most efficient workout for weight loss, add some strength training to your cardio. While walking, swimming, and jogging are great for getting your heart rate up, cardio such as HIIT and circuit training bump up the fat burning by engaging various muscle groups. Hancock Wellness Centers, again, are a great place for group exercise classes that will help you to gain lean muscle and burn fat. HIIT, Aqua Tabata, Aqua Core and others are wonderful options to work with trained instructors to help you get your daily dose of exercise while meeting your fitness goals.

Group classes are also fun and can help you to stay motivated, even when you don’t want to show up. Check out the full class schedules for each of the three Hancock Wellness Center locations by heading to their website. 

While many of us think of a cardio workout as the standard 20 minutes on a treadmill, getting a wide variety of movement will help your body gain strength and decrease your chances of injury. Therefore, the best solution may be to keep your options open this fall. Mix it up with classes from your local wellness center as well as a walk or jog with a friend on one of Hancock County’s beautiful trails. Any way you get it, cardio is a great form of exercise for lifelong health and wellness.