The actual amount of cardiovascular training that one person needs is really going to depend on the individual.  Although there are tremendous benefits from being on a cardiovascular training program, I don’t agree that everyone “needs” it.  There are a handful of people out there that have really amazing genetics and would not ever “need” to follow a cardiovascular training program. However, I wouldn’t bank on that being you…sorry  There are far too many positive benefits of following a cardiovascular training program to not do it. Even if you were one of those special people that were genetically gifted, you would still gain long term benefits from a Cardiovascular training program. Wouldn’t you agree that if you could add a few more years to your life that it would be worth doing even 20 minutes of cardio a few times a week? For me yes, but only you know what’s important to you. 

 One of the most important benefits of following a cardiovascular training program is that it builds a strong healthy heart.  Some experts say that the heart is the most important muscle in the body. I guess that’s the opinion of some and while I can’t speak for what’s important to you, I will have to agree with them on this one. Some other benefits include burning calories, burning fat and strengthening the lungs just to name a few. As far as the amount that one individual needs, it’s really going to depend on there current health conditions, what there goals are and how quickly they wanted to achieve them.  For a beginner it is wise to start off slowly, even just adding a brisk 20 walk in to your daily routine a few times a week. As you become more comfortable with it, you should gradually increase your program until you are doing at least 30-40 minutes of moderate intensity 3 to 4 times per week. This an optimal amount for general health purposes.  In order for your activity to really be considered a Cardiovascular workout, your hear rate should be between 60%-85% of your maximum heart rate. This is considered the cardio zone.  Your maximum heart rate is just how it sounds, the fastest that your heart can beat. If you are not sure what your maximum heart rate is, a good way to judge it is if you can hold a conversation during your exercise, then you need to turn it up a notch. Although you should be able to talk, you certainly should not be able to hold a conversation. Have you ever been to the gym and seen 2 people on the treadmill next to each other chatting it up? Yeah, well…..they’re probably NOT in the zone! If you are looking to burn more fat quickly, obtain better conditioning or train for any kind of sports, then a more vigorous program will certainly be needed. I would recommend that everyone get on some kind of a cardiovascular training program.  If for the only reason, to add a few more years to your already short life. Now, get out there and MOVE people!