Good cardio fitness …

Have you ever watched others do a physical activity that seemed enjoyable, and so you wanted to do it as well?

That was me with running.

I’ve never been a runner. I have ran as needed for sports or physical activities, but have never been a regular runner. Years ago I remember watching runners and, seeing how they seemed to be really enjoying the physical challenge, I thought perhaps I was missing something.

So, for several months, I took up running.

I wanted to make sure I gave it a fair and full try. So I ran not less than five miles five days a week. I was disciplined enough to keep this regimen going until, one day as I was running along in the Chicago area, I realized I wasn’t enjoying myself.

I didn’t like running.

Coming to that conclusion, I stopped, and continued with my other activities that make up my personal fitness regimen.

For those who enjoy running … awesome! Keep at it! I’m a huge proponent of good cardiovascular conditioning, and if you enjoy running as a key part of your cardio exercise, keep going and enjoy it!

But for those of us who don’t like running, don’t sweat it! Studies have shown that walking (not strolling, but walking at a brisk enough pace to raise heart rate) is as, or sometimes more, effective than running. Additionally, walking puts less trauma on the body and can be just as enjoyable.

There are a variety of ways to get and enjoy good cardio conditioning, whether it’s outdoors or in a gym using equipment, playing sports or being active around your home or community. The important thing is to try to get 45 minutes to one hour of cardio conditioning three to fives time per week (yes, this is in addition to any muscular conditioning you do). Cycling — whether outdoors on a bicycle or using a stationary bike indoors — can be fun but is the least effective form of cardio as compared to the same amount of time or distance on an eliptical machine or even a treadmill. Swimming can be effective for both weight-loss and toning as this exercise uses all of the major muscle groups. Additionally, the resistance of water is less harsh on joints than that of using weights.

Any time you are about to engage in exercise, make sure you warm up first, then exercise, and then cool down following the exercise. Stretching should be done after the exercise — or at least after warming up. Stretching cold muscles could potentially result in pulling or tearing a muscle.

And, as always, be sure to consult a physician before starting any exercise program.