Boost Your Mood with These Cardio Workouts!
Boost Your Mood with These Cardio Workouts!
Cardio is fantastic for boosting your mood—especially when you are feeling down. By incorporating cardio into your routine, you’ll boost your feel-good hormones (endorphins), practice mindfulness, and get some exercise!
If you aren’t used to doing cardio exercises, you may not be sure which ones you should start with, and which cardio exercises are right for you. Below are some great cardio exercises that are easy and even fun to incorporate into your routine…
Pro Tip: The best cardio workout is the one you can stick to! Find an exercise you love and be consistent.
1. Jogging on a Nature Path
Jogging on a treadmill is good for your health and is better than not getting cardio exercise at all. With that said, there’s nothing quite like going for a jog in nature. The sounds and smells help to bring you into the moment. You also soak up some sunshine while you run, which is an extra bonus when improving your mood!
2. Biking
As with running, biking is a great way to get outdoors and get your heart pumping. In Chicago, you can hit an awesome bike path (especially one by the lake!). For those with knee issues, biking is a better option. It allows you to get a similar level of cardiovascular exercise without the burden on your joints.
This doesn’t mean jogging is bad, by the way. The best option between the two comes down to your preference and your specific body.
3. Martial Arts
There’s nothing quite like hitting some pads after a long and difficult day! Martial arts like boxing, muay Thai, BJJ, karate, and others are wonderful ways to work through your stress while also getting your heart rate up. On top of the great exercise you’ll be getting, you’ll also be building a sense of mastery as you learn the art. It’s a fun, engaging, and meaningful way to get some serious exercise!
4. Swimming
Swimming is an amazing cardio exercise for those with joint issues and those that are unable to perform other exercises in a healthy way. It is also soothing and relaxing! Swimming is one of the best cardio exercises out there, and there are lots of public pools throughout the city of Chicago that you can enjoy!
Pick the Right Exercise for You!
These are just a few great options for getting your cardio in and boosting your mood. Consider trying each of these out (or at least the ones you are capable of performing) and see which one fits you the best. Then keep at it! You’re almost guaranteed to see a boost in your confidence, self-esteem, and overall mood!
About Front Door Health
Front Door Health provides judgment-free in-home treatment for patients when they need it. We take an evidence-based approach to treatment, and we create custom treatment plans for our patients to increase their chances of success. Our treatment process is client-focused and individualized. This means no group sessions with strangers and no “treatment as usual” approach. You are unique and the treatment plan we create for you is designed to meet you where you are along your journey and help you to reach your recovery goals.
As part of our treatment program, we offer personal training services to help you connect with your body, get some exercise, release feel-good hormones, and create a sense of mastery. You’ll have your own professional trainer to create a program to meet your needs and fitness level!
We understand that it can be difficult to put your life on hold and take time off work. Our in-home treatment allows you to continue to meet your work, school, family, and other obligations while receiving the treatment you deserve.
If you would like to learn more about in-home treatment, contact Front Door Health today. We’re happy to answer any questions and provide you with the help you need.
info@frontdoorhealthcenter.com
