“___________________ is the Best Form of Cardio Exercise!”
Debunking Cardio Myths
By Doc Gavin
In the health and fitness world, there’s a persistent myth that one form of cardio is superior to all others.
Some people swear by long runs, others are loyal to high-intensity intervals, and a few live on the rowing machine.
What is the best form of cardio training?
In the health and fitness world, there’s a persistent myth that one form of cardio is superior to all others. Some people swear by long runs, others are loyal to high-intensity intervals, and a few live on the rowing machine.
But the truth is simple: no single cardio method is the “best.” Each has unique benefits and can support different goals, depending on how and when you use it.
Low-Intensity Steady-State (LISS)
Think walking, light cycling, or an easy hike. LISS is great for beginners, recovery, and stress relief. It improves aerobic capacity with minimal wear and tear on the body. If your goal is fat loss, LISS can be a valuable tool—especially when done consistently over time and paired with strength training. It also supports heart health and helps manage cortisol levels, making it ideal for overtraining, injury recovery, and stress management.
Moderate-Intensity Cardio
This includes jogging, swimming, rowing, or biking at a steady, moderate pace. It’s often the sweet spot for improving cardiovascular endurance, burning calories, and supporting mental well-being. For those training for events like 5Ks or simply wanting to boost general fitness and energy, moderate cardio offers a sustainable and effective option. It’s also less taxing than HIIT while still delivering solid health benefits.
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) includes short, intense bursts of work followed by rest, which can be sprints, resistance training circuits, or bike intervals. HIIT is time-efficient and great for improving performance, increasing anaerobic capacity, and burning fat. It’s especially useful for busy schedules or performance-driven goals. However, it’s not for every day. Recovery is essential, and overuse can lead to fatigue or injury.
So, Which One Is The Best?
All of Them.
The key is to match the cardio level to your goal and your body’s needs.
Want to improve steady endurance?
Use moderate cardio.Looking to burn more calories in a shorter amount of time?
Add HIIT a few days into your weekly exercise routine.Need to recover or want to prioritize burning fat over a longer duration?
Go for lower intensity, but steady state (LISS) cardio.
A well-rounded cardio routine improves heart health, supports fat loss, boosts mood, and builds endurance. But more importantly, it keeps fitness enjoyable and sustainable.
The real magic happens when you combine these approaches based on your current fitness level, schedule, and goals. Forget chasing the “best” workout. The best form of cardio is the one that supports your goals —AND— that you’ll stick with long-term.
