4 Steps to Setting up Your Own Cardio Routine

Cardio exercises are an essential part of working out and keeping fit, as they help burn calories and enable us to lose weight. On top of that, cardio also keeps our lungs and heart healthy, energises us, and helps minimise the risks of a host of illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, and so on. While the benefits are numerous, cardio isn’t often a comfortable experience; like all workouts, it is designed to push your physical and mental limits in order to develop. If this is your first exposure to cardio workouts, the discomfort might seem daunting initially, but with the right activities, pacing, and fitness equipment in Singapore, you can gradually ease yourself into your new routine. Here’s how to get started.

Choose An Activity that You’ll Enjoy



The best way to ease yourself into cardio activities is to select one that you’re comfortable with doing, as opposed to one that you think you should do. If you’re new to this, you may not know just how much exertion your body can handle, so simple activities like walking would be a great place to start; it doesn’t even require special gym equipment in Singapore. Simply head to your nearest park and complete a lap or two to test yourself out. If walking isn’t your cup of tea, you could also consider other forms of cardio exercises like cycling, swimming, or even dancing. It would probably help if it’s an activity that you’re actually interested in. 

Remember to Warm up & Cool down



Not placing enough importance on warming up before any workout is a common rookie mistake. Before you begin each cardio activity, do make an effort to put in a 10–15-minute warm up, which can include anything from stretching to light cardio like jumping jacks or jogging on the spot. Be sure to stretch the muscles you’ll be engaging in your workout — namely, your ankles, calves, hamstrings, glutes, and even your arms.

If the objective of warming up is to gradually increase your heart rate, then it is just as important to gradually cool it down with cooldown exercises after a cardio session. Just like warming up, cooling down involves the same stretching and light cardio exercises. For instance, if you’re using fitness equipment in Singapore like a treadmill, refrain from stopping the machine immediately after running; instead, bring it to a brisk walking pace for about a minute or so before gradually slowing it down to a halt.

Pick An Equipment You Know How to Use



If you prefer doing cardio activities using gym equipment in Singapore, it’s important to be familiar with said equipment before using it, especially if you’re relatively inexperienced. Injuries caused by a misuse of gym equipment are well-documented and can be quite serious; you don’t want to face a lengthy time out just because you were trying to use a piece of equipment that you were unfamiliar with. Instead, stick with the basics, like a simple rowing machine, or a stationary bike, or a treadmill — basically, something easy to operate. If you’re still keen on trying something new, we recommend heading down to our gym equipment shop in Singapore to consult a professional who will show you the ropes.

Learn more: 4 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Home Fitness Equipment

Pace Yourself



It’s normal to want to achieve results quickly by pushing yourself way beyond your limits, but that isn’t necessarily a healthy way to go about cardio activities, or other workouts in general. It’s important to find a good balance between pushing yourself and being mindful of your limitations. In technical terms, you’ll want to exert yourself slightly harder than comfortable, which reads like a Level 5 or 6 on the Perceived Exertion Scale. A good mantra to have is to start where you are, not where you aspire to be. Fitness is a long journey that requires patience and discipline; as long as you stay committed to getting a little better every day, you’ll eventually reach your fitness goals.

HF Lifestyle is your one-stop service for buying, selling, and leasing high-quality fitness equipment in Singapore that can help you achieve your fitness goals. For more information about our products and services, please visit our website.