Ep 23: Truth or Trend: Is Cardio Really What’s Wrecking Your Cortisol Levels?

Modern Body: Pilates & Movement for Life

Introduction: This week, Aly DiRoma dives into the hotly debated topic of cardio and its relationship with cortisol levels. Aly takes you on a journey through the science behind cortisol, explaining how this essential hormone interacts with our cardiovascular workouts. She debunks common misconceptions, offering a balanced view that considers individual variability and lifestyle factors. Whether you're a cardio enthusiast or someone who's wary of it due to the latest wellness trends, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed decisions about your fitness routine.

Notable Quotes:

• "Cortisol gets blamed for a lot of symptoms, but it’s really just doing its job. It’s responding to the state of stress we’re in."
• "Cardio is not the enemy. In fact, it’s incredibly supportive for our bodies, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too."
• "You can add cardio into your life sustainably—think shorter durations, lower intensities, and gradually build from there."

In This Episode:

• The science behind cortisol and its functions in the body.
• How different types of cardio impact cortisol levels.
• Why it’s important to look at the bigger picture, including lifestyle and emotional stressors.
• Tips on incorporating cardio into your routine without overwhelming your body.

Key Takeaways:

• The Role of Cortisol: Understand what cortisol is, its natural ebb and flow throughout the day, and how it’s not the villain it’s often made out to be.
• Cardio and Cortisol Connection: Learn why cardio does increase cortisol, but why that's not necessarily a bad thing. Aly explains that it’s a natural response to stress, which is crucial for energy and adaptation.
• Debunking the Myths: Aly busts the myth that cardio is solely responsible for dysregulated cortisol levels, emphasizing that many types of movement can increase cortisol, and it’s more about how you manage it within your lifestyle.
• Strategic Cardio: Discover how to incorporate cardio into your routine in a way that’s sustainable and supportive of your overall health goals—whether that’s maintaining heart health, improving endurance, or simply feeling good.

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Connect with Aly DiRoma: 👉 https://link.me/alydiroma