So, you're a skinny guy and you're wondering if cardio is the right exercise for you.
In this article, we'll discuss the benefits of cardio for skinny guys, how to start doing cardio if you're not used to it, and tips for staying motivated to do it regularly.
We'll also touch on the importance of diet and rest when doing cardio.
Why is cardio important for skinny guys?
Cardio is important because it helps to burn calories and build stamina.
It also helps to improve heart health and circulation.
Obviously, skinny guys don't necessarily need help burning calories.
But cardio can be helpful for building stamina and improving circulation.
If you have trouble getting your heart rate up during workouts, cardio can help with that.
You actually need some cardio fitness for the heavy compound lifts that are essential for building muscle.
Lifting weights puts a lot of stress on your heart and lungs, so you need to be able to handle that stress.
Cardio also helps to reduce the risk of injuries.
If you have weak connective tissues, tendons, and ligaments, you are more likely to get injured.
But if you do some cardio to strengthen those tissues, you'll be less likely to get injured.
How to start doing cardio if you're not used to it
The best way to start doing cardio if you're not used to it is to just start slow.
You don't have to go out and run a marathon your first time.
Just start with some light jogging or walking.
You can also try doing some bodyweight exercises like jumping jacks or burpees.
If you have access to a gym, you can try using the elliptical machine or the rowing machine.
Start with 20-30 minutes of cardio and work your way up from there.
You don't have to go overboard. Just do enough to get your heart rate up and break a sweat.
Cardio exercises that are perfect for skinny guys
HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) is a great form of cardio for skinny guys.
With HIIT, you alternate between periods of high intensity and low intensity.
For example, you can sprint for 30 seconds and then walk for 60 seconds.
You can do this for 20-30 minutes and it's a great way to get your heart rate up without having to do a lot of endurance training.
The reason why HIIT works great for skinny guys is because it helps you build explosive power.
And that's something that skinny guys need to work on.
HIIT can be applied to many exercises like sprinting, rowing, biking, and even jump squats.
Potential drawbacks of doing cardio if you're skinny
One potential drawback of doing cardio if you're skinny is that you might lose muscle mass.
If you're not careful, you can end up in a calorie deficit and lose muscle mass.
To avoid this, make sure you're eating enough calories and protein.
Only do enough cardio to build stamina and improve circulation.
Don't overdo it.
Another potential drawback is that cardio takes quite a bit of time and you might burn out on actually going to the gym.
Plus, if you start doing too much cardio, you might not have enough time or energy to lift weights.
And lifting weights is essential for building muscle.
So, make sure you're striking a balance between cardio and weightlifting.
Conclusion
So, should skinny guys do cardio?
The answer is a resounding yes!
ardio has many benefits for men of all body types, but it’s especially important for skinny guys who want to put on muscle mass.
Just be sure to start slowly and build up your endurance over time, and make sure you eat well and get enough rest when you’re doing cardio.
These exercises are a great place to start if you’re new to cardiovascular exercise.