iFitness101

When explaining what I want a client to perform I find it’s sometimes easier if I explain why I’m asking them to complete the given task. I feel this is the case when it comes to cardio training. So, before I go into the training portion, I’ll explain why cardio training is an important part of your all around exercise program.

Oxygen is the necessary catalyst for many of the body’s functions when engaged in continuous activity for 30-minutes or longer. Here are two important terms you need to know:

Aerobic – pronounced (air-o-bic)

When you’re involved in extended cardiovascular activity, it is called aerobic. Meaning it requires oxygen to complete the task. Running on a treadmill is an example of an aerobic activity.

Anaerobic – Pronounced (an-air-o-bic)

This is the term for activities that last for short durations and are not dependent on oxygen for completion. Resistance training is an example of an anaerobic activity.

Note: Even though resistance training is anaerobic you still need to breathe. I catch people all the time holding their breath when lifting. This can cause you to get light-headed, dizzy and produce headaches.

Cardio is the abbreviated term given to cardiovascular activities. This is exercise that places stress on the cardio-respiratory system (aerobic). These activities can be anything from walking, biking, running to swimming, basketball, soccer and so forth.

The cardio-respiratory system is an abbreviation for two systems: the cardiovascular system and the respiratory system. Because they work hand-in-hand, the two terms are often combined. Together they provide the body with oxygen, nutrients, protective agents and a way to remove waste by-products.

Now I want to separate and explain each part of the cardio-respiratory system so you can have a better understanding of why cardio activities are important to include in your exercise program.

This system is an accumulation of the heart, the blood it pumps, the blood vessels and arteries that transports the blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Your body utilizes this system to gather the necessary oxygen and nutrients for daily function and repairs.

The primary role of this system is to ensure proper cellular functioning. The respiratory system accomplishes this by providing a means to collect oxygen from the environment by breathing in and transport the oxygen to the bloodstream to be circulated where needed.

Next Week – Cardio Training

Live Healthy – Be Free,

Tony