Cardiovascular endurance describes the capacity of the heart, blood vessels and respiratory system to deliver oxygen and fuel to the muscles for a prolonged period at a steady rate. Exercises that improve cardiovascular endurance are known as aerobic, which means "with oxygen." If you do not like the thought of joining an aerobics class, there are plenty of other ways to improve cardiovascular endurance by adding aerobic activities to your daily routine.
Errands
When you have a small errand to run such as picking up a few items from a local store or going to visit a nearby friend, leave the car at home and walk. Start out slowly and gradually build up if you have become unaccustomed to exercise. Even walking for just 10 minutes a day can make a big difference to cardiovascular health if you are a person who doesn't regularly exercise.
Recreational Outing
Next time you are deciding where to take children for a recreational outing, instead of going to see a movie, consider a bike ride. A 2006 study published by the "American College of Sports Medicine" found that Danish children who cycled to school were significantly fitter, and more likely to enjoy cardiovascular health, than those who walked or traveled by motorized transport. Cycling can be enjoyed as a recreational activity by people of all ages ranging from young children to seniors. In addition to building cardiovascular endurance, cycling is also a good way to burn excess fat. One hour of moderate biking burns about 300 calories. Dancing Dancing gets your heart pumping and increases cardiovascular and lung health. Additionally, it is something that you can do at any time of the day, and you do not even need to leave your house. Dancing is also a convenient way to relieve daily stress and it helps to improve mood. If you need inspiration to begin dancing, there are many dance workout DVDs that can be purchased in fitness and bookstores, or online. Chores Performing everyday domestic chores such as housework and gardening improves cardiovascular endurance. Working at these tasks may not be as effective as going for a brisk walk or a run, but the stretching, lifting and repeated movements that are required for cleaning and gardening will support cardiovascular strength.
