Cardio has many significant benefits. For example, studies demonstrate that aerobic activity (cardio) increases the mitochondria in the body and prevents age-related mitochondrial decline. The mitochondria are essential in every cell within the body, creating energy for each cell to perform its regular functions.
In turn, this means your body can optimize its use of oxygen, leading to increased energy and limiting fatigue that tends to increase as we age. On top of this, cardio increases blood flow to the brain. This drives cognitive function and improves brain health, even reducing your risk of dementia.
Furthermore, when you move your joints during cardio activity, this stimulates lubrication of the joints. This means that more synovium (joint fluid) is produced, which can help prevent wear-and-tear and pain.
And, as you probably already know, cardio is wonderful for your heart and cardiovascular health. This type of activity keeps your arteries in check. As the blood pumps through your veins, it acts as floss for your arteries! This can help get rid of plaque in a gentle and efficient way.
In many ways, cardio also acts as an accelerator for a healthy metabolism. With the right dose, you actually improve metabolic health, paving your way toward graceful aging!