Developing a cardio training routine is often interpreted as being complicated, and should only be left to the professionals. This notion is simply incorrect because any person, no matter their level of fitness expertise, can develop a cardio program to achieve your goals or desires. However, there are some important characteristics that every person should understand before they construct an effective cardio routine.

First, you must decide what your cardio goals are.

Are you trying to lose weight, and build muscle? Or are you just trying to lose weight?

In both instances, there is still only two options to choose from. The two primary energy systems used during any cardio exercise are aerobic and anaerobic. Aerobic techniques are typically the most popular of the two, but this isn’t because of the level of effectiveness. In fact, anaerobic exercises are far more effective for burning fat in the shortest amount of time.

Aerobic exercises such as long distance running, stationary bikes, or ellipticals require exercising at a repetitive pace for up to 60 minutes per session. On the contrary, a single anaerobic routine only takes about 30 minutes, and will burn twice as many calories as a 60-minute aerobic workout.

There is no doubt that both anaerobic and aerobic cardio techniques are effective tools for losing unwanted fat. However, anaerobic exercises have a significant advantage for several reasons.

Here are some reasons why you should consider anaerobic cardio:

• Takes much less time.
• Will incinerate fat, and build lean muscle.
• Will provide you with long-term results

Unless you’re a cross-country runner or someone involved in a sport that requires a heavy aerobic component, then there really is no reason to use this form of cardio.

Here are some reasons why you should avoid aerobic cardio:

• While it may burn fat, it does not build lean muscle
• Will not provide long-term results (lost fat is not replaced by muscle)
• Potentially for joint damage due to repetitive overuse.
• Takes a great deal of effort and time to see any significant results

Deciding between the two energy systems is essential towards your decision on how you will structure your cardio training routine.

If you’re interested in anaerobic techniques, then you have many options to choose from. Some of the most popular anaerobic exercises include sprints, hill sprints, plyometrics, interval training, agility’s, and bodyweight circuits.

Aerobic exercises include long distance running, swimming, and cycling.

It’s completely up to you to decide which method of cardio is most suitable for your needs. If you absolutely love aerobic cardio, then stick with it! But if you’re truly set on losing weight, and keeping it off for good, then you should definitely consider incorporating some anaerobic exercises into your cardio regime.

I hope this was helpful and good luck in your cardio training program!