Cardio Vs. Strength

Anyone who knows me, knows that strength is absolutely my focus. Cardio is more of a necessary component.

When it comes to the battle between the two, it is all about what you are looking to get from your exercise routine.

Cardio blasts calories and improves endurance in whichever sport you practice; swimming, running, cycling. However, overall strength training burns more calories. Building muscle in your body burns calories during the strength training, as well as for about an hour afterwards. Because strength training is more demanding on your muscles, your body works harder to restore the muscles after the workout which continues to burn calories. In addition to burning more calories during recovery, for every 3 pounds of muscle you build, your body burns an extra 120 calories a day doing nothing, because muscle is harder for the body to sustain.

Though strength training gives you all of what you need right now, cardio is still necessary. Cardio's main benefit is longevity. Cardio keeps your heart healthy in more ways than one.

The Verdict?

Strength training should be priority to get the results you are looking for. Strength sessions should be 30 minutes, three to four times a week. While cardio can be sufficient two to three times a week for 30 minutes each session.