Once you've made the decision to improve your health by working out, you might be confused by all the types of exercise available. While it does appear mind boggling at first glance, there are actually only a few main exercise categories.
Different Types of Exercise
Find information on various types of fitness at LoveToKnow Exercise.
Cardiovascular Exercise
Cardiovascular exercise, or cardio, is probably the most well known and popular type of exercise. Cardio workouts are designed to get the heart rate up and burn calories. This strengthens the heart and also aids in weight control. In addition, regular cardio exercise also has tremendous health benefits. It decreases your risk of heart disease, lowers cholesterol, decreases stress, helps you sleep, and can even lessen the symptoms of many health problems. Jogging is an obvious example of cardiovascular exercise. Here are a few others:
- Walking
- Using a treadmill
- Cycling
- Dancing
- Hiking
- Climbing stairs or using a stairmaster
Targeted Workouts
If you are concerned about one or more specific problem areas of your body, you can find a targeted workout program. These programs exercise one major muscle group and are generally designed to burn fat, build muscle, tone, and tighten that specific group. Exercise programs designed to target belly fat, abs, and the core abound, but you can also find workouts made specifically for your butt, legs, biceps, shoulders, lower body, and more.
Strength Training
Strength training, also called weight training or resistance training, is a vital type of workout and should be a part of everyone's workout regimen. Ideally, an exercise program will alternate between cardio and strength training. This combination works well for weight loss, weight maintenance, and general health. Learn more in the strength training category.