Bhagyashree emphasises the importance of cardio exercises: ‘A stress test to ascertain levels of stamina and endurance’

Regular cardio exercise not only helps you lose weight but also improves sleep and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. If you have not yet incorporated cardio exercises into your workout regimen, Bhagyashree Dassani gives you the perfect reason to do so.

The Maine Pyar Kiya actor is a hardcore fitness enthusiast and nutritionist who doles out health advice through her #TuesdayTips posts on Instagram.

As such, sharing the importance of cardio, Bhagyashree said that cardio should be an essential part of your workout. “Not only is it a calorie burner, but it also tests the optimum condition of your heart. It is like a stress test which helps you ascertain how well your levels of stamina and endurance are and it can help you push to achieving a higher goal, especially during any sports training,” she said.

Demonstrating one such cardio exercise, Bhagyashree revealed that saddle jumps are something she likes to begin her cardio with. “It gets my heartbeat really up. It is very simple, but it also requires coordination, concentration and core-strength. One minute of concentrated cardio is the perfect warmup for my exercise routine,” she informed.

However, the actor exercised a word of caution. “Make sure you never begin any cardio workout without a go-ahead from your doctor and under proper supervision and guidance of a trainer,” she advised.

Further, Utsav Agrawal, fitness coach, FITTR shared that activities like brisk walking, jogging, running, cycling, swimming and dancing are all examples of cardio exercises. Engaging in regular cardio exercise offers numerous benefits for overall health and well-being, including:

cardio If you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before beginning a cardio program. (Source: Freepik)

*Improved heart health: Cardio strengthens your heart, enhancing its ability to pump blood efficiently and effectively. Regular cardio exercise can lower your resting heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes and high cholesterol.

*Increased stamina and endurance: Consistent cardio workouts gradually improve your lung capacity, allowing you to take in more oxygen and distribute it throughout your body. This increased endurance enables you to engage in daily activities with less fatigue and enjoy physical activities for longer durations.

*Weight management: Cardio exercises are excellent for burning calories and shedding excess body fat. By incorporating cardio into your routine, you can create a calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss. Additionally, it boosts your metabolism, helping you maintain a healthy weight in the long term.

*Stress reduction: Cardio stimulates the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” hormones. These natural mood enhancers help reduce stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression. Regular cardio exercise can have a positive impact on mental health, promoting a sense of well-being.

Below are some tips to keep in mind before starting a cardio routine:

*Start slowly: If you’re new to cardio exercise, start with low-impact activities and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts. This approach helps prevent injuries and allows your body to adapt to the new demands.

*Warm-up and cool-down: Always include a brief warm-up and cool-down session in your cardio routine. This helps prepare your muscles and joints for exercise, and it aids in recovery afterward.