The Best Cardio Exercise

What’s the best cardio exercise?

by Jerome K Brown

“What’s the best cardio exercise?” and “Should I start running?” are two questions I’m often asked. When someone asks if they should start running, my reply is, “Do you like to run?” The response is often “I HATE running” or “It hurts my knees”. To that I reply, “Then you shouldn't run”. For you runners out there, I’m not picking on running. This can apply to almost any exercise.

While refining exercise technique may alleviate the physical pain, pain is bad. It’s your body’s way of saying it doesn't like what’s happening. The “no pain, no gain” philosophy is something I have never subscribed to. So if the thought of an exercise fills you with dread or you have to take a handful of pain medication afterward, then that exercise may not be for you.

“What’s the best cardio exercise(s) for me?” should be the question. The best cardio exercises are the ones that allow you to reach your goals and don’t cause physical pain or mental anguish. I encourage people to try a broad range of exercises and keep the ones that work (this also helps to prevent boredom/burnout). Wellness is a lifelong pursuit and what you do should reflect this.

Also the best exercises for you may change over time. The things you did in your 20’s may not work for you now. In many cases adding low impact exercises can reduce stress on the joints and the pain that sometimes results. In my case the weights I lift aren't as heavy as they used to be and I’ve added the elliptical machine to my routine. My goal is to have all my original joints last as long as I do.

So if your cardio exercise is causing you pain or you want to add some variety, try some different exercises and see what works. You can also contact your PWR coaches if you have questions or need some ideas.

Get moving!