Cardio vs. Weight Training — What's Best for You?

For decades, women in particular have been told that the best way to lose weight or get in shape is to participate in cardio training. The popular misconception that weight lifting makes us bulky and is more suitable for men often drives women away from incorporating it into their workouts.

In recent years, however, this stigma has been challenged. Weight lifting (along with cardio) has woven its way into women’s workout routines. So which is actually better: cardio or weight training?

It’s simple… both!

Both cardio and weight lifting have many proven benefits to whip our bodies into shape. To get a better idea, here are a few of those benefits:

Cardio

• Burns calories and fat

• Strengthens your heart

• Increases lung capacity

• Reduces stress

• Temporary relief of anxious feelings

• Helps reduce the risk of heart attack and high blood pressure

Weight Lifting

• Boosts metabolism

• Lowers inflammation

• Improves posture, sleep, and mood

• Boosts confidence

• Strengthens mental health

So, what are the most effective ways of incorporating these into your workout?

Start with a cardio-based workout. This includes—but is certainly not limited to—the elliptical, riding the bike, walking, walking on an incline, rowing, running, or interval running. You should start your workout with 15 minutes of something that gets your heart rate up!

After you complete 15 to 20 mins of cardio, it’s time to hit the weights! Come up with a 3-4 circuit workout (a circuit is a set of exercises), and repeat those exercises 3-5 times for optimal results. Weight training exercises can include anything from deadlifts to squatting, tricep dips, hip thrusts, and many more! If you need any inspiration for weight training exercises, the Internet is your best friend!

Only have a quick 20-30 minutes for a workout? Professionals recommend weight training, as it boosts your metabolism for the remainder of the day (Pace University).

So don’t let the myth of bulky body weight training scare you away, ladies! If done properly and consistently, it can leave you just as toned as cardio.