Cardio is one of the most debated topics in the fitness community. Everyone seems to have an opinion, and the sheer number of options out there can make it overwhelming. If youâve ever wondered, âWhatâs the best way to do cardio?â, youâre not alone. I recently received this question during an Instagram Q&A, and it made me think: how do you find a cardio method that really works for you?
Well, thereâs one answer thatâs based on science and another one based on realityâand Iâm going to share both with you here.
The Scientific Answer
Letâs start with what the science says. According to experts and research, these are the top 3 most efficient cardio methods based on calorie burn and time investment:
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
HIIT is known for being time-efficient and powerful. A quick 20-minute HIIT session can burn 240-320 calories. It involves short bursts of intense activity followed by brief recovery periods. HIIT workouts are great if you want quick results, but they can leave you feeling exhausted and sore, which isnât always appealing. - Swimming
If youâve ever tried swimming as your workout, you know it can be both an intense full-body exercise and a solid cardio session. A 30-minute swim at a high intensity can burn 240-360 calories. However, not everyone enjoys swimming, and for some, going underwater can feel like an uncomfortable experience. - Cycling
Cycling, whether outdoors or indoors, offers a solid cardio workout. A 30-minute cycling session typically burns about 210-300 calories. While itâs a popular choice, not everyone owns a bike, and it may not be a viable option depending on where you live or your personal preferences.
But hereâs the catch with these methods: Not everyone enjoys them. And letâs face itâif you donât enjoy a workout, youâre less likely to stick with it in the long run.
My Honest Answer
So, hereâs the honest truth: there is no single best cardio method. Instead, there are a million ways to do cardioâand you should choose the one you love the most. The truth is, you can do almost anything that increases your heart rate and keeps you moving. Here are some examples:
- Walking or Jogging
- Running
- Walking Up Stairs
- Dancing
- Hiking
- Jumping Jacks
Yes, even jumping jacks for 30 minutes count as cardio! As long as your heart rate goes up and youâre moving your body, it works.
Why This Approach Works
Fitness isnât just about burning calories or achieving a certain lookâitâs about sustainability and enjoyment. If you pick a workout method that you actually like, youâre way more likely to stick with it. Achieving your dream body should be a rewarding experience, but the process should be something you enjoy, not just a goal-driven slog.
I personally prefer dancing as my go-to cardio. Itâs something I never associated with traditional cardio before, but now I love it. It doesnât feel like a workoutâit feels like fun, energy, and self-expression. Thatâs the kind of fitness journey Iâm all about.
Embracing Your Fitness Journey
Remember, fitness is about doing what works for you, both physically and mentally. Itâs about enjoying the sweat, the effort, and the progress you make along the way. Your dream body isnât just about aestheticsâitâs about confidence, strength, and self-love.
If youâre tired of following trends and just want a method that gets you where you want to be without burning out or losing motivation, itâs time to find an approach you love. Dance, jog, hike, cycle, jumpâit doesnât matter as long as it keeps you moving and you love doing it.
Ready to Level Up Your Fitness Journey?
If youâre ready to stop guessing and start committing to a method that works for your body and mind, let me guide you. My 8-week personalized plan is designed to take your fitness journey to the next level, ensuring you achieve your curvy, sexy, and empowered dream body with workouts and guidance that suit your lifestyle and goals.
Letâs get you on a path where fitness isnât just about goalsâitâs about a lifestyle you love.
Love,
Yaslen XOXO