It’s pretty obvious that cardio and strength training are different exercises because while cardio is an aerobic activity, which means it uses oxygen to increase the breathing and heart rate, strength training on the other hand is an anaerobic activity which includes free weights like dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, etc.
However, while cardio enjoys significant popularity amongst mainstream fitness enthusiasts, strength training on the other hand is yet to get a stronghold in the fitness industry. What people do not realize is that strength training is actually as important as cardio training and here are the 6 reasons that prove the same.
Whether you are just getting started with this training style or experienced one, you can start strength training at home at any time. All you’ll need is some free space to move — & that’s it, you can start out with your strength exercises!
Strength training actually makes you fitter and stronger
Strength training is also known as resistance training because it involves strengthening and toning the muscles by contracting them against a resisting force. We all know cardio training works on the health of the heart and lungs but strength training builds muscle strength, which is equally important to make it easier to do the things you need to do on a day-to-day basis, especially as we get older and naturally start to lose muscle strength.
Develops better body mechanics
The main reason most people do cardio is that it burns calories and helps them lose weight. Strength training in the same breath focuses on balance, coordination, and posture. This is because balance is usually strongly dependent on the strength of the muscles that keep people on the feet. So, in a nutshell, the stronger the muscles, the better your balance.
Helps with chronic disease management
You must have heard that cardio training helps alleviate the risk of heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, etc. But, do you know, strength training is equally effective in helping people with some chronic diseases such as arthritis, muscle fatigue, and more? In fact, if you are suffering from arthritis, strength training can be as effective as medication in decreasing the arthritis pain.
Boosts energy levels and improves the mood
Strength training is known for elevating the level of endorphins, which in turn lift energy levels and improve the mood. As such all exercises including cardio boost the mood because they increase endorphins and thus reduce stress levels. But, in the case of strength training the effect is amplified as neurochemical and neuromuscular responses to such workouts have further positive effects on the brain.
Regulates insulin and lowers inflammation
Are you grappling with type 2 diabetes and constantly need to manage blood sugar levels? Then, we have good news for you. Strength training along with keeping away chronic diseases also has you burning through glucose while lifting weights additionally work to fight off inflammation, a marker tied to many diseases. In Fact, according to some studies, regular resistance training sessions, about twice a week, mostly result in a drop in inflammation in women overnight.
Strength training helps keep the weight off for good
Cardio exercises such as walking, running and cycling are well-known for helping people increase the number of calories they burn in a day and thereby shed extra pounds. Book a free 10-mins consultation with our certified weight loss personal trainer,
However, strength training helps too, because it helps increase the resting metabolism (meaning the rate at which the body burns a huge number of calories when you are just about your day, not exercising).
Thus, strength training keeps the metabolism active after exercising much longer than after an aerobic workout. Strength training with cardio can help you lose weight and gain muscles, have better heart health, and improve your existing mental health.
