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Add Cardio to Your Day

Your heart, lungs and brain will thank you


A man and woman dancing by a harbor
Morsa Images/Getty Images

Quick Win

Cardiovascular exercise has benefits for your heart, lungs, metabolism and even your brain.

Try This Today

  • Ride your bike. Strap on a helmet and take a spin around your neighborhood or a park.
  • Go for a walk. Take a stroll with your dog, invite a friend along or head out solo for some afternoon cardio and, if the sun’s shining, vitamin D.
  • Put on some music and dance. Dancing to your favorite song is a fun way to sneak in cardiovascular exercise.

Why

Cardiovascular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve your mental health and reduce your risk of certain ailments cardiovascular disease, some types of cancer and diabetes. It may also benefit your thinking skills and memory. According to AARP’s Global Council on Brain Health, purposeful exercise — brisk walking and cycling — provides benefits for brain health.