Building a road map to reach your strength and cardio goals is crucial for any exerciser. Experts recommend setting up a series of benchmarks, such as how many push-ups you can do, with regular assessments to track progress.
According to Dr. Tamanna Singh, co-director of the Cleveland Clinic Sports Cardiology Center, a benchmark provides an objective measure of current strength and cardiovascular health. “It’s like taking a snapshot of your fitness at a specific time,” she explains.
The first step in tracking your fitness is knowing and accepting your starting point. It’s easy to overestimate your abilities, but having a realistic baseline is essential. By establishing these benchmarks, you can build a safe exercise program that meets your goals.
Setting up an effective road map requires self-awareness, patience, and persistence. By monitoring your progress regularly, you can make adjustments and stay on track, ultimately achieving your strength and cardio goals.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/10/well/move/fitness-benchmarks-training.html