Cardio vs. Strength Training Workouts

Most workouts tend to be divided into two main categories: cardio and strength training, or weight training. Cardio focuses on intense workouts that are meant to get your heart pumping, while weight training looks to enhance your health by building and toning your muscles. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

Different body types benefit differently from these two workout types. Additionally, one or the other might be better for you to utilize when you are trying to reach your health goals. To help you devise a workout plan that’s best for your body and your goals, call a Chicago personal trainer from B4 health & Fitness today at 773-251-4619.

The Pros and Cons of Cardio

Cardio workouts are characterized by high-intensity exercises meant to strengthen your stamina and your heart. Examples of cardio include jogging, swimming, power walking, and other workouts meant to get you panting. Cardio can be beneficial because it offers stress-reducing, mind-clearing exercise. Additionally, as your heart is strengthened, it helps increase longevity by reducing your risk of:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Osteoporosis
• Stroke
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Heart Disease

On the other hand, cardio workouts tend to be very high impact, which results in wear and tear on your muscles, joints, bones, and cartilage. Thus, they can aggravate injuries that may require you to take some time off.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Strength Training

While many people, women especially, scorn strength training because of its ability to bulk up your muscles, new research has shown that weight lifting has many advantages, including:

• More muscle = more calories burned, even while at rest
• Building your core can help you balance better and prevent injuries like ankle sprains
• Lifting weights fights intra-abdominal fat, the kind that constricts blood vessels and organs

As for disadvantages, excessive weightlifting can build more muscle than you want. Additionally, when performed with improper form, strength training can put unsafe stress on your muscles and joints that can cause injuries.

Contact Us

If you need help building the perfect workout formula for you, call a Chicago personal trainer from B4 Health & Fitness today. Our nutritionists can also help you plan a diet that helps you reach your health goals. For more information, contact B4 Health & Fitness at 773-251-4619.