There are a few components you should follow to ensure a safe, effective cardio exercise program. While these are great to set a foundation for your training, this is not an exclusive list and new exercisers are still encourage to get a check-up and a doctors ok before beginning an exercise program.

First, determine your heart rate. There are many complicated treadmill tests to objectively measure maximum heart rate, but most people will use a simple calculation to estimate their maximum heart rate. The easiest way is to subtract your age from 220.

Next, you need to determine the intensity of your training. Intensity refers to your heart rate during training. The appropriate exercise intensity depends upon your maximum heart rate, your current level of fitness and your goals.

Typically the fat burning cardio zone is in the 60-70% range, while general weight loss and aerobic occupies the 70-80% zone. Those training for more extreme situations may train at a variety of heart rate levels, many exceeding 80%.

A well balanced Cardio Exercise program is sure to get you looking trim and feeling fit.!