Did you know that adults should get at least 150 minutes of exercise every week to stay healthy? However, there seems to be a debate at the gym on which training style is better for our health.
Some cardio-enthusiasts spend hours on the treadmill. Meanwhile, avid weightlifters seem never to do any cardio at all. So, which type of workout is best for your health and achieving your goals?
In this post, we will look at the differences between weight training vs cardio! So, after reading it, you’ll have a better idea of which to prioritize for your fitness goals.
Benefits of Weight Training
Weight training is a great way to burn calories while increasing muscle mass. While it doesn’t burn as many calories as cardio, it is still an excellent way to improve your body composition, meaning you will not only lose weight but you will replace fat with muscle over time.
Of course, building muscle isn’t the only benefit of weight training. Increasing your body’s muscle mass also raises your resting metabolism rate. So, you will burn more calories during the day without doing anything!
And, lifting weights is also a great way to increase bone density, preventing injury and diseases like osteoporosis. Meanwhile, stronger muscles support your joints and decrease pain and the risk of injury.
Of course, if you are new to this exercise style, you’ll want to work with a trainer at the gym. And, if you plan on doing weight training at home, you can read a weight training guide. Doing so will prevent you from getting hurt and help you learn plenty of weight training tips for faster results.
Benefits of Cardio
Even though you can improve your heart health with other forms of exercise, cardio is by far the best way to build endurance. Since your heart rate goes up, your body needs more oxygen for your blood. So over time, you boost your aerobic capacity and notice you huff and puff less during strenuous activity.
Of course, strenuous cardio sessions are the best way to burn calories during a workout session. So, if you are trying to lose weight, you’ll want to make cardio a part of your workout routine.
And, just like weight training, you don’t need any fancy equipment to do cardio exercises. If you have a pair of running shoes, you’re good to go! Just be sure to learn proper form so you don’t injure yourself.
Weight Training vs Cardio: You Don’t Have to Choose!
Despite many people comparing weight training vs cardio, the best results come when you combine both. So, don’t worry about which is better, and be sure to create a well-rounded workout plan! By doing so, you’ll not only accelerate your results, but you’ll feel better too!
For more weight training and cardio tips, be sure to check out more of our fitness and health-related content!
