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

The new heart rate sensor uses both earbuds to transmit pulse rate to Apple Health and other authorized iPhone apps, giving you insight into your cardio workload. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 9 Oct. 2026

There’s also a 24-hour gym, a light and airy place with multiple cardio machines, weight training equipment, and floor space for yoga, stretching, or floor exercises (and enough room to do so without impeding on anyone else’s space). — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 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