The heart is a muscle, and it is undoubtedly the most important muscle in our body. If it fails, everything else in the system follows. In other words, if your heart malfunctions, you end up either disabled or dead so it's important to keep it functioning at its most optimum level.

Cardio workouts promote blood circulation and strengthen the heart muscle. When the heart is strong, it is able to perform its job of pumping blood more efficiently all throughout the system. With steady and constant blood flow, one's chances of stroke or cardiac arrest are lessened. This is why cardio workouts are crucial in keeping our heart in tip-top shape.

Cardio workouts need not be complicated. There are simple cardio exercises which you can even do in the comfort of your own home. Here are some examples:

1. Squat thrusts. They're more popularly known as burpees. The drill starts with your feet apart with your hands in front of you in a squat position. In one sudden movement, you jump to a push up position, making sure that your body is in a straight line. You then go back to your starting position and repeat for about 10 times.

2. Jumping jacks. You can do the usual jumping jacks for a minute or so. But for a more high-impact workout, you can add one step, jump on it (or step on it) and perform jumping jacks on the floor. Take note that this can be very hard on the knees, so you've got to land soft and make sure that you've got good rubber shoes on to absorb impact.

3. Mountain climb. Nope, you don't need to find a mountain for this. Simply start in a push-up position and bring your right knee in towards your chest. Switch your feet in one sudden jump and repeat this alternating motion for about a minute or so.

4. Trampoline jumps. If you've got a trampoline at home, you can get a cardio workout done by simply jumping up and down. It's a fun way to get your heart rate up.

5. Frog jumps. This is one cardio exercise that can keep the blood running in a short amount of time. Start by squatting all the way down to the floor with your hands in front of you. Then, jump to the air, putting your heels together and your hands behind your head as you do so. Make sure that your knees are bent when you land to keep your joints from getting hurt. Repeat for ten or more times.

A few reminders before you engage in any cardio home workout, though. Make sure you go to your doctor first, especially if you have an existing heart condition or high blood pressure, so he or she can set the limits for your workout. If you feel pain, discontinue the exercise. And always, always do warm-ups and cool down exercises before and after your routine. Following these simple tips can make your home cardio workouts safe and effective. One last thing: Staying fit is a way of life. Make sure that you also eat healthy and live a healthy lifestyle while performing your cardio exercises.