The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Form of Cardio Exercise for Your Fitness Goals

Cardio exercise is an effective way to burn calories, improve heart health, and increase endurance. The amount of calories you burn during cardiovascular exercise depends on a variety of factors, including your weight, age, gender, and intensity level.

Here are some estimates for the amount of calories burned during different types of cardiovascular exercise.

 

Running is an excellent way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health.

Running is a high-intensity exercise that can burn a lot of calories. On average, a person who weighs 150 pounds can burn around 100 calories per mile. So, if you run 3 miles, you could burn around 300 calories. It can also help to build endurance, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce stress. However, it can be hard on the joints, so wearing proper footwear and gradually increasing your mileage is essential.

Cycling is a low-impact exercise that can be done indoors or outdoors.

Cycling is a low-impact form of cardiovascular exercise that builds endurance and burns calories. It can also help to improve leg strength and balance. On average, a person who weighs 150 pounds can burn around 300-400 calories per hour of cycling.

Swimming is a low-impact exercise that works the entire body.

On average, a person who weighs 150 pounds can burn around 400-500 calories per hour of swimming. Swimming is a full-body workout that can burn a significant number of calories while also being low-impact. It can help to improve cardiovascular health, build endurance, and tone muscles. Additionally, swimming can be an excellent option for those with joint pain or injuries.

Walking:

Walking is a low-intensity exercise that can be done indoors or outdoors. On average, a person who weighs 150 pounds can burn around 100 calories per mile. So, if you walk 3 miles, you could burn around 300 calories.

Elliptical trainer:

The elliptical trainer is a low-impact exercise machine that can provide a full-body workout. On average, a person who weighs 150 pounds can burn around 300-400 calories per hour on the elliptical trainer.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT):

HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest. It’s an efficient way to burn calories, improve cardiovascular health, and build strength. Additionally, it can be done quickly, making it a great option for those with a busy schedule. On average, a person who weighs 150 pounds can burn around 300-500 calories per hour of HIIT.

It’s important to note that these estimates are just rough averages, and the actual number of calories you burn may vary depending on your individual characteristics and the specific exercise routine you follow. To get the most accurate estimate of the number of calories you burn during exercise, consider using a fitness tracker or consulting with a personal trainer.

Ultimately, the best form of cardiovascular exercise for you will depend on your fitness goals, preferences, and physical limitations. As a personal trainer I am asked frequently “what is the best type of cardio exercise?” My answer is always the same…The one you prefer!

It’s important to choose an activity that you enjoy and that you can stick to long-term.

 

Comments

Exclusive Newsletter

Water Fitness

Dive deeper into the world of water fitness by signing up for my exclusive, twice-a-year newsletter. 

Packed with the latest case studies, aquatic trends, cutting-edge equipment finds, and so much more, this is your ultimate resource for everything water fitness.