Cardiovascular fitness can be defined simply as your body's ability to get oxygen and blood to the muscles. When you do physical activity and your pulse quickens and your breathing gets deeper, you are using your cardiovascular system. You can improve your cardiovascular system's efficiency through regular training. The short term used when referring to cardiovascular exercise is Cardio.

There are a few simple guidelines you can follow when determining how much cardio work you should do. Basically, it all comes down to your goals. If you are trying to lose weight, cardio is one of the best forms of training, thanks to its high calorie burn you can get the results you require. Starting conservatively when initiating training is the best route.

If your fitness goal is sport or event specific; e.g. running a marathon or completing a bike ride, increasing your cardiovascular fitness is a must.

Benefits of increasing cardiovascular fitness are nearly endless.

Here are just some of the benefits:

• Weight loss
• Stronger heart and lungs
• Increased bone density
• Reduced stress levels
• Reduced risk of heart disease and some types of cancer
• More confidence about how you feel and how you look
• Better sleep
• More energy
• Setting a good example for your kids to stay active