'Cozy' and 'cardio' may seem contradictory - cozy conjures up images of relaxing on the couch or sipping coffee at your desk, while cardio pictures sweating it out at the gym. However, this new fitness trend popularized by TikTok-er Hope Zuckerbrow allows you to take control of your workout and set the vibe at the most comfort of home. 

So, is cozy cardio effective for you? And how can you get benefits from it? Let's dive in!

What is Cozy Cardio?

"I want cozy cardio to help women reclaim their relationship with exercise," Hope explains. To tap into cozy cardio, you need to:
"Cozy cardio is meant to take the pressure off. It's meant to help you enjoy movement again. It's meant to teach you that you're worth setting time aside for. Your body deserve it, but your mind does more." She adds.
 

Who Can Benefit from Cozy Cardio?

Cozy cardio is a nice-tryout for beginners looking to start with small, achievable fitness goals. But as Amanda Hart (CPT, trainer and holistic health coach) says, you will eventually need more stimuli to continue challenging yourself and progressing.
 
It’s also great for introverts who dislike crowded gyms, desk workers seeking relief from work stress, seniors, and anyone recovering from surgery.
 

How to Get Started with a Cozy Workout？

There's no single "right" way to do it - make it hygge-inspired by setting your own comfortable pace and vibe. 
Start with 10-15 minutes of easy cardio like walking, cycling, rowing or pedaling. Slowly increase as you monitor your heart health and effort. Small steps make a big difference!
 
Furthermore, if you’re a fresher/game-lover or would love to try something new, you'll definitely need a cardio workout on the MERACH App. Try the "Virtual Video" class - "Age of Dragon" with the MERACH T03 Smart Treadmill - it can motivate beginners to start and stick to a routine.

For office workers, after a stressful day, unwind with a peaceful walking class like "Free Training" or "Scenic Walking" on the MERACH T05 Walking Pad. A cozy cardio with the MERACH App takes the pressure off, helps you enjoy movement again, and teaches you to make time for yourself.  

The only possible drawback of enjoying workout time alone is missing out on the motivation of a fitness community. With cardio gear, like MERACH S09 Cycling Bike, you can still connect with friends on world-popular fitness apps, including Kinomap and Zwift, expanding your social circle instead of being in the crowded local gym. 

 
For seniors and those in rehabilitation therapy, low-impact courses like "Shoreline Riding" with the MERACH S27 Under Desk Bike or "Alpine Lakeside" with the MERACH S19 Recumbent Bike aid recovery while staying active.
 

The Benefits of Cozy Cardio

Cozy cardio offers some wonderful benefits, both mental and physical, that can enhance your overall health and wellbeing in a comfortable, low-pressure way. 

The gentle movements involved, like walking, cycling, or rowing, lead to the release of mood-boosting endorphins and dopamine. By making your workouts something you look forward to, cozy cardio enables you to maintain a routine that keeps those feel-good hormones flowing. No pressure, just consistency - and a happy mood! 

In addition, the low-impact motions help preserve muscle strength and function. Regular activity keeps muscles engaged, maintaining the mobility and independence that allow you to live life on your own terms. For seniors especially, cozy cardio can support active living. 

Mentally speaking, cozy cardio enables you to form sustainable fitness habits by making movement enjoyable versus a chore. When you actually anticipate and enjoy exercise, you're far more likely to stick with it. This momentum can reduce anxiety and boost your overall mindset over time.

In Closing

Cultivate consistency with an enjoyable exercise regimen you'll stick to. Cozy cardio can help you build a sustainable workout habit by making workouts enjoyable.
However, for some, it may be too low-impact. These are all okay! The key is to find an activity you love and stick with it - it's hard to be consistency with something you hate.  

Note: Before beginning any new exercise program, consult your doctor. Stop immediately if you experience pain.