When we think of cardio exercise, most of us picture it as a tool for fitness or weight loss. But did you know it plays a crucial role in healing and recovery? Whether you're dealing with a common injury like tennis elbow or simply looking to feel better overall, daily cardio exercise can transform your journey to better health.
I’m Emma Green, the Tennis Elbow Queen, and I’m here to explain how cardio helps your body heal from the inside out—and why it should be part of everyone’s rehabilitation plan.
Why Our Bodies Need Movement
Our bodies are designed for movement, not for sitting all day or being confined in concrete boxes. Long before modern life, humans were running through fields, chasing animals, and gathering food. Movement is a fundamental part of how our bodies function best.
When you engage in cardio exercise, even something as simple as a brisk walk, several incredible things happen in your body:
Increased Circulation: Blood flow ramps up, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues.
Boosted Oxygenation: More oxygen is delivered to muscles, helping them work efficiently.
Natural Detoxification: Waste products in the muscles and bloodstream are cleared more quickly.
But here’s the real magic: these processes don’t just make you feel good—they actively support your body’s ability to heal.
How Cardio Helps with Tendon Healing (Like Tennis Elbow)
Let’s take a closer look at injuries like tennis elbow. This condition affects the tendon on the outside of the elbow, which connects muscles to bone. Tendons naturally have a poor blood supply, making them slow to heal.
When you engage in cardio exercise, you increase blood flow throughout your body. This includes delivering protein—the building block of tissue repair—to your injured tendon. More blood flow means more nutrients and healing agents get to the area, which can help speed up recovery.
Cardio’s Bonus Benefits
Beyond its impact on healing, cardio exercise has other incredible benefits:
Natural Pain Relief: Cardio releases endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers, which can ease discomfort from chronic injuries.
Mood Boost: Regular movement helps rebalance hormones, reducing anxiety and depression often triggered by chronic pain.
Energy Levels: More circulation and oxygenation leave you feeling energized and refreshed.
How to Get Started with Cardio for Healing
If 30 minutes a day feels overwhelming, don’t worry! Start small and build gradually. My Cardio Calendar is the perfect tool to help you ease into a routine. It starts with just one minute per day and gradually increases until you’re hitting 30 minutes daily by the end of the month.
Here are a few tips to get started:
Choose Your Favorite Activity: Walking, cycling, swimming, or even dancing counts! The key is consistency.
Track Your Progress: Use a fitness tracker or app to monitor your steps and heart rate. Aim for around 8,000 steps daily for optimal benefits.
Be Intentional: Carve out time for movement every day, no excuses. Your healing journey deserves it!
What Cardio Can Look Like
A brisk 30-minute walk around the neighborhood.
Cycling at a comfortable pace.
Playing your favorite sport, like tennis.
Even household chores like vacuuming or gardening can get your heart rate up!
Take Control of Your Healing
Cardio exercise isn’t just about fitness—it’s about empowerment. By incorporating daily movement into your routine, you can take charge of your recovery, reduce pain, and feel better inside and out.
Download my Cardio Calendar to get started today and begin your journey to 30 minutes a day. Whether you’re recovering from tennis elbow or just looking to improve your overall wellness, cardio exercise is a game-changer.
Let me know how you’re incorporating cardio into your life! Share your progress in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to hear from you.
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Let’s move toward better health—one step at a time.
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