Updated July 29, 2015.

Definition:

Cardiorespiratory endurance is the body's ability to sustain dynamic exercise, using large muscle groups, over time and at a moderate to high intensity level. During this exercise, the body's circulatory and respiratory systems (the heart and lungs) must supply fuel and oxygen to the muscles.

Activities such as running, walking, swimming, and bicycling improve cardiorespiratory endurance.

Shortened to just "cardio," the term refers to this category of exercise, in which the primary goal is to boost the heart rate. In contrast, other forms of exercise like resistance training aim primarily to build muscle and bone strength.

The U.S. Department of Health recommends both aerobic and resistance exercise for most Americans, saying that both forms are beneficial. Specifically, the department recommends that children and teens get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day, and most of it should be moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise.

For adults, the recommendation states: "Adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous intensity aerobic activity. Aerobic activity should be performed in episodes of at least 10 minutes, and preferably, it should be spread throughout the week."

See all fitness terms.

 

Also Known As: cardiorespiratory fitness, aerobic fitness, aerobic endurance, cardio workout

Alternate Spellings: cardio-respiratory endurance