The Fitness Magazine: 7 Health Benefits of Cardio Exercise

Wednesday, October 25, 2017

7 Health Benefits of Cardio Exercise

Learn how to cook healthy, delicious meals with ease. The Mayo Clinic Diet online provides easy-to-follow meal plans and recipes that take the guesswork out of healthy eating. Dig in and sign up now!

"When we're in the midst of a fog and can't see the shoreline, we need a compass. Reach out to a trusted friend or adviser for perspective. We're not hardwired to go it alone. We need others to survive and thrive."— Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

Move More

Cardio 101: Benefits and tips

Do you have a hard time motivating yourself to do aerobic exercise? Consider this: In addition to burning calories, regular cardio helps improve mood, control appetite and much more. If you're a beginner, start slowly. You might walk five minutes in the morning and five minutes in the evening. Gradually add a few minutes to each session and then pick up the pace a bit. Soon you could be walking briskly for 30 minutes a day. Also consider hiking, cycling, jogging, rowing, elliptical training — any activity that increases your breathing and heart rate!

Practice these fitness fundamentals »

Healthy Eating
Get into the habit: Pack your lunch
How often do you just grab whatever's available when you're hungry, even relying on a vending machine to supply your midday meal? Packing lunches can be challenging if you aren't already in the habit. Reinvigorate your lunch, save money and eat healthier with the following tips.

Try these lunch-packing strategies »

Today's Healthy-Cooking Tip
Add flavor without extra calories
Easy, flavorful food combinations can add pizazz to your meals and snacks, and keep you motivated to meet your goals. For starters, jazz up dishes by using herbs and spices to add color, taste and aroma. Add cilantro to rice or bean dishes. Sprinkle rosemary on roasted potatoes, cubed squash (or other veggies) or grilled meats. Try freshly chopped chives in omelets or pasta salads. It's that easy!