Reignite Your Routine
Women's Health South Africa|September - October 2022
Consider this the state of cardio in 2022: Women are breaking up with unfulfilling activity and tapping into methods that offer bigger payoffs. Watch the fitness evolution unfold - and learn how to find a more rewarding (and effective) routine.
JULIA SULLIVAN
Reignite Your Routine

IN HER FIVE AND A HALF YEARS AS A CYCLING INSTRUCTOR, PERSONAL TRAINER ROXIE JONES TAUGHT UPWARDS OF 10 SPINNING CLASSES PER WEEK (THAT’S MORE THAN 2 500 CLASSES IN TOTAL!).

More recently, she’s had to deal with the repercussions – including hormonal issues and sleep problems – of going overboard on this popular form of cardio. Fortunately, she has learnt to embrace more balanced training, which nets healthier results…but it wasn’t easy.

Of course, the average sweat fanatic may not be pedalling vigorously on a stationary bike 10 times a week, but it’s not unusual for women to have a torrid relationship with cardio at some point in their lives. And while strength training has drawn more women away from the elliptical in recent years, cardio has long remained front and centre in everything from government exercise recommendations to advertising.

Consider this for a moment, though: Cardio may not need as strict a prescription or definition as we thought – or even as sizeable a place in our routines. Seriously! An evergrowing body of research (and a powerful social media movement) is bearing out the truth that strength training can provide the same – if not more – results and emotional perks as classic cardio.

What does cardio need, in this case? A serious PR makeover. Ahead, why it became such a loaded topic – plus what fitness experts recommend prioritising in your sweat regimen instead. (We see gains in your future.…)

How We Got Here

This story is from the September - October 2022 edition of Women's Health South Africa.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the September - October 2022 edition of Women's Health South Africa.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM WOMEN'S HEALTH SOUTH AFRICAView All
Should We All Be More GenZ
Women's Health South Africa

Should We All Be More GenZ

Those born between 1997 and 2012 now make up more than a fifth of the workforce - and while they might have strong opinions on your jeans, it's not the only thing they care about. From healthy boundaries to prioritising mental wellbeing, WH makes the case for growing down...

time-read
8 mins  |
January - February 2024
OPTIMISE YOUR ENERGY
Women's Health South Africa

OPTIMISE YOUR ENERGY

Experts say we're suffering from a \"fatigue epidemic\" - but that it's fixable. Deep-dive into the research behind this phenomenon and learn to service your source for the long haul.

time-read
8 mins  |
January - February 2024
The Real Art Of Getting Closure
Women's Health South Africa

The Real Art Of Getting Closure

The days of waiting for someone else to give you answers are officially over. Understanding isn't handed to you. It's work you - yes, you! - put in.

time-read
3 mins  |
January - February 2024
May I Recommend Being A Serial Dater And Not Having Sex?
Women's Health South Africa

May I Recommend Being A Serial Dater And Not Having Sex?

If you like snacks or bad TV, you're already on your way.

time-read
4 mins  |
January - February 2024
Force Of Habit
Women's Health South Africa

Force Of Habit

From over-worrying to over-shopping, your impulses might hold you back more than you think. Cycle-breaking insights, ahead.

time-read
5 mins  |
January - February 2024
Unleash Your Inner Child
Women's Health South Africa

Unleash Your Inner Child

Sometimes, finding happiness in the present means healing the past. Experts share simple ways to show kindness to your former self.

time-read
5 mins  |
January - February 2024
Water Works
Women's Health South Africa

Water Works

Proper hydration is the key to healthier, more manageable hair - and it doesn't entail a dramatic overhaul. It starts with a little knowledge and ends with a few moisturising micro-adjustments to your routine.

time-read
4 mins  |
January - February 2024
The Active Girl's Sun & Sweat Guide
Women's Health South Africa

The Active Girl's Sun & Sweat Guide

Exercising outdoors requires a little extra effort when it comes to protection. But it's worth it. You can level up your SPF game and still enjoy open-air workouts.

time-read
5 mins  |
January - February 2024
Tatjana Schoenmaker
Women's Health South Africa

Tatjana Schoenmaker

Trailblazer Tatjana Schoenmaker reflects on her remarkable career, what drives her and how she hopes to make the most of her future needs.

time-read
2 mins  |
January - February 2024
Charted Waters
Women's Health South Africa

Charted Waters

Take a deep dive into the sport that'll shape, tone and help you find mindfulness. Your guide to swimming, right here.

time-read
2 mins  |
January - February 2024