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Difference Between Cardio and Strength Training Activities

What is Cardio?

What is Strength Training?

Difference Between Strength Training and Cardio

Although both these exercises target better health conditions for young and older adults, there are few differences between cardio and strength training. Based on your necessity and body condition, you can choose the one which suits you.

Here is a table to help you get a clear picture:

Parameters Strength Training Cardio
Calorie burning Strength training helps to burn more calories overall. In fact, your body continues to burn calories even after the completion of the exercise. People find it appropriate to do cardio since it helps to burn more calories depending on your weight.
Weight loss Strength training helps you lose fat by building your muscle tissue. So, your metabolic rate will be higher if you have more muscle mass. If you plan to lose extra fat, cardio is an ideal choice. It reduces body fat faster, ensuring effective results.
Muscle building According to research, strength training is an effective process that helps to preserve your muscle mass at any age. Cardio is meant mainly for those who are focusing on weight loss. However, regular cardio workouts can also positively affect the muscle-building process.
Heart health It does not have any specific role in strengthening your heart muscles. Since it is a form of aerobic exercise, our body needs more oxygen as our heart rate shoots up during cardio. This increases lung capacity and improves heart muscles.
Diet To recover your muscles from replacing glycogen, start intaking carbohydrates and protein. You should take it within two hours of your workout session. During cardio, you should avoid processed food, and it is advisable to focus on whole food items.
Bone Health Low-impact cardio exercises work on the bones in both legs and spine. Strength training can increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Equipment Required Cardio requires basic running shoes, treadmills, steppers, stationary bikes, etc. Strength training requires weights, dumbbells, etc., for a proper workout.

Which Muscles are Involved in Cardio and Strength Training?

Which is Better - Strength Training or Cardio?

Benefits of Cardio Exercise

Benefits of Strength Training

Is It Safe to Indulge in Both Cardio and Strength Training?

How Much Strength Training or Cardio Is Suitable for a Week?

Who Should Avoid Cardio and Strength Training?

Myths vs Facts about Cardio

Cardio is a common activity that people of all ages can easily do. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding cardio. Here are a few:

Myths Facts
Cardio exercise is necessary to lose weight. You need to burn more calories from exercise and daily movement than you take in from food and drink. Any exercise will help with this.
Cardio ruins the gains in muscle. It's not a golden rule to avoid cardio for muscle building. Some cardio exercises are dedicated to muscle building.
Cardio will burn calories, but strength training is the only way to build muscle and get "toned". Exercise itself will tone you up. Choosing the right cardio will help tone the muscles you wish to.
Cardio can help you burn more calories when done on an empty stomach. The truth is that your body cannot function for an extended period without a balanced diet. You should start your day with a substantial and nutritious meal.

Myths vs Facts about Strength Training

Many people indulge in strength training with the hopes of building. However, there are many misconceptions regarding it; here a a few:

Myths Facts
If you lift weights, you get bulky. You can build muscle, burn fat, and burn calories by exercising strength. This will make you appear thinner.
Strength training causes joint problems. Strength training can help you avoid injuries. In comparison to other sports, weightlifting has fewer injuries.
Strength training women will grow to be massive. Women lack the hormonal makeup needed to develop noteworthy muscle through strength training.
You need to purchase pricey equipment or be a member of a gym to begin strength training. You may strengthen your upper body by performing planks and push-ups using your body weight. You can strengthen your lower body with basic exercises like lunges and squats.

 

So, now you have a clear idea about cardio vs strength training. If you have further queries, you can discuss them with a professional trainer. He/she will help you chalk out plans for which you want to engage. In addition, always consider your health and goals before you plan a workout. Design your diet according to it.

Cardio or strength training depends on the individual or the requirement. Cardio helps gain muscular and heart health and helps with overall fitness without targeting any muscles specifically. It aids in calorie burn and bone health.

whereas strength training is directed explicitly towards muscle building and joint health. For proper strength training, you need equipment and a guide. With strength training, you will gain muscle and overall fitness.

FAQs about Cardio Vs Strength Training