Bikini season is just around the corner and if you’re anything like me, getting to the gym more is probably at the top of your to do list. No matter what your reasons are for starting a fitness routine, the foundation to achieving most goals is incorporating cardio. It increases blood flow and oxygen to your body, igniting your system on a path to success. Pro-Form personal trainer and dietitian, Carissa Bealert, has three tips to help us get our cardio fitness on the path to success.
1. Use a fitness tracking device to see what your activity level is now.
Whether you use the steps counter in your smartphone or opt for more stats with a Fitbit Charge 2, having a fitness tracker to reference each day will help determine what success looks like for you. According to Carissa, don’t change anything in your routine for the first two weeks. The first week you begin, add five to ten minutes of movement. The key is doing more than you did yesterday but start with success in mind.
2. Utilize workout equipment that puts you on a personal path to success.
Finding workout equipment that best suits your personal fitness level will help steer you even faster towards achieving your goals. The elliptical has almost a zero gravity feel which is gentler on your body and joints, the bike lets you sit down for your workout and the treadmill is great for following your natural path of movement while challenging your core and balance.
3. Get equipment with a timer.
The best way to track your progress is to utilize equipment that tracks and times your progress. If using an elliptical or treadmill, start at level one, two or three, see how you feel and add from there to track your personal success.