Anyone who has ever gone running or engaged in vigorous exercise can tell you how quickly the movement affects your breath and your body temperature. Muscles need oxygen to be active, so the faster you move and the greater the number of muscles involved, the more oxygen your body needs. Columbia University says that during cardio exercise, your heart beats faster and pumps blood, and therefore oxygen, to your lungs and throughout your body. An increased fitness level allows for more efficient use of the oxygen and more control over your breath.
Running
Running is a cardiovascular activity that almost anyone can enjoy, no matter your age, ability level or experience. Beginning runners often have trouble controlling their breathing, but your endurance and use of oxygen will improve with practice. The only equipment needed for an effective running workout is a pair of high quality running shoes. Women’s Health Magazine says that the benefits are far-reaching and include burning calories, losing weight, improving the health of your heart, and strengthening the ligaments that support your joints. Running reduces your risk of stress, stroke, diabetes and breast and lung cancer.
Stair Climbing
Climbing or running stairs also requires a large amount of energy and oxygen from the body and will therefore affect your breath and body temperature. Stair climbing is an intense form of exercise that can build a large amount of muscle primarily in the lower body, including the glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps and calves. The European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation says that stair climbing “represents vigorous-intensity physical activity with oxygen uptake reaching approximately 80 percent of maximal values.” Stair climbing is an inexpensive and accessible form of movement and exercise that most everyone can incorporate into their lives.
Cycling
Whether you’re hitting the trails or attending an indoor cycling class, the large amount of energy required during cycling should elevate your heart rate and affect your breath and body temperature. Fitness magazine says that a 40-minute vigorous bike workout can burn 500 calories. Your lower body is doing most of the work during when cycling, but your abdominals, lower back and upper back work to keep you in proper form while on the bike.
