Last Updated on April 29, 2016 by Michael Brockbank
Although it may be fairly common knowledge that cardio workouts are some of the best to perform in order to burn away the inches, there are actually quite a few reasons why you would want to get more throughout the day. The practicality of being healthy goes beyond simply looking good. I’ve covered a similar topic before, but I wanted to go a bit deeper as to the mechanics of how cardio workouts impact your regular lifestyles. It may play more of a crucial role in your day than you might realize.
The Practicality of Cardio Workouts
Cardio workouts are those that center more on increased movements in order to burn carbs, calories and sugars in the body. It firms up muscle mass while enhancing stamina. For example, playing a grueling game of tennis is an intense cardio workout. Technically, so can a round of golf – especially if you carry your clubs instead of using a cart. So, what makes these kinds of activities important for everyday life?
Pain Reduction in Joints
Proper fitness contributes to pain management. Weight loss can ease pressure on joints and back while proper nutrition and exercise can reduce various other pains within the body. Continued exercise also prompts the body to release endorphin, which fills you with the a similar euphoric sensation as marijuana. It’s like a natural pain killer. This doesn’t say anything about constant movement helping in keeping yourself limber. Muscle stiffening may begin to decrease giving you better freedom of movement. However, over doing it can cause a myriad of other pains – especially if you push yourself too hard.
Easier Time at Work
I’ve had a few jobs in the past where cardio workouts were ideal for improving my productivity. Even if your job is physically strenuous, sticking with an exercise routine as well can fine tune the body. You’ll take fewer breaks as you’re body will be more attuned to staying active for a longer duration. This could be greatly beneficial when the boss decides to hand out raises or advancements. You may also find yourself less tired at the end of the work day, especially if you like to go out.
Working in the Yard
Cardio workouts can contribute to physical activity and endurance in the yard. There’s been plenty of times where I would have a boost in motivation to rake or pull weeds, but the body had other plans. I would get tired relatively fast and unable to complete the task. Improving my cardio routines, I’ve experienced an increase in energy to keep going while working on the lawn. I plan on doing some major landscaping this summer, but that’s not going to happen until I shave off a few pounds and enhance my endurance even further.
Playing with the Kids
Currently, I can only do so much with my children in terms of outdoor activity. I am just not in good enough shape to keep up with my kids. However, I have noticed a difference in my energy levels through increased cardio exercises. This is because workouts such as these promote increased stamina as well as strength to continue prolonged physical activity. Essentially, you begin to train your metabolism to burn carbs for energy more efficiently – as long as you have a proper diet to go with it.
Reducing Pain for Prolonged Standing
Personally, my back started to ache when I was on my feet for longer than 15 minutes. Doing things like washing dishes, grocery shopping and other chores caused my muscles to tense up. Standing at the golf tee is another time when my back and legs begin to ache. However, I’ve noticed a significant difference with these activities with the more cardio work I do. Things like a standing toe touch has made a difference in golf while increased walking allows me to go shopping without the aches and pains I once felt.
Repairs and Maintenance
Painting the house last summer made me realize just how out of shape I am in. Even working on our vehicles was more physically grueling than it should have been. My arms kept getting tired while trying to turn the ratchet. A regular exercise routine reduces, if not eliminates, such issues. The most mundane of activities could seem less of a chore when your body is accustomed to movement. It’s such a pain in the ass to have my wife help me under the hood because I can’t hold a simple hose while tightening the clamp.
Dealing with Emergencies
I had an experience yesterday that convinced me that I am still not in the shape that I’d like to be in. The short story is that I had to ride my bike 2.5 miles uphill while carrying two gallons of gasoline in 40-degree whether because my wife and daughter was stranded. The end result was less than ideal, and we were about to take a trip to the emergency room because I couldn’t breath. If I was in better shape, I would have less of a hard time. I couldn’t leave my wife and daughter stranded on the freeway, so I had to do what needed to be done. Emergencies such as these will happen without warning, and cardio workouts can help you prepare for such an instance. Whether it’s a natural disaster or walking several miles for gas, cardio training can be greatly beneficial.
Increasing the Libido
There are many people who have a difficult time getting into the mood for love when they’re overweight. I’ve noticed a significant decrease in my own libido as I’ve been getting older and fatter. Studies suggest that losing weight can help stimulate the sex drive. Cardio workouts can also help boost stamina during sex. This will affect you on a physical and emotional level. If you don’t like the way you look, it can greatly affect your sex life. Coincidentally, love making can be an effective form of cardio exercise.
While cardio workouts can improve the curve of your body, it shouldn’t be the only reason why you would want to exercise more each day. Think of physical activity as more of a method to train your body to face the day. The more regular the routine, the better off you’ll be. Don’t let a two-mile bike ride send you to the emergency room. It doesn’t take a lot to get started today.
What aspects of your life would you like to improve on through exercise?
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/features/sex-and-weight
http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/features/lose-weight
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=55001
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