cardio

1 of 2

adjective

car·​dio ˈkär-dē-(ˌ)ō 

: cardiovascular sense 2

cardio exercises

cardio

2 of 2

noun

: cardiovascular exercise

30 minutes of cardio daily

Examples of cardio in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Fredericson said the activity pushes the body into the cardio sweet spot of roughly 60 to 70 percent of max heart rate, and noted that research shows carrying heavy loads over complex terrain elevates cardiorespiratory demand. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 July 2026

The AeroPilates Reformer helps tone muscles, improve flexibility and boost cardio health with customizable intensity for full-body workouts. — Tory Johnson, ABC News, 24 Apr. 2026

Noun

In a room filled with enough humanitarian awards, photos with legends, and travel souvenirs to fill a museum, the bike is a delightful reminder that even an American icon has to get her cardio in. — Gloria Steinem, Glamour, 4 Sep. 2026

Among the regular participants are active-duty firefighters, lifeguards, professional boxers, National Guard personnel, yoga teachers and locals just looking for a fun way to get their cardio in. — Jenna Belhumeur, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1972, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1987, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

cardio

1 of 2 adjective

car·​dio ˈkärd-ē-(ˌ)ō 

: cardiovascular sense 2

cardio exercises

worked out on cardio machines

cardio

2 of 2 noun

: cardiovascular exercise

30 minutes of cardio daily