Their is a lot of confusion and information about whether it is better doing Cardiovascular Training (Cardio) or Resistance Training within your programme. The reality is that depending on your specific goals the answer may be different, however, with all programmes it is best to incorporate both Cardio and Resistance training as part of the programme.

Cardio and weight training offer different benefits. Cardio primarily focuses on improving cardiovascular health, boosting stamina, and burning calories, while weight training focuses on building muscle strength, improving bone density, and increasing metabolism. While cardio burns more calories during the workout, weight training can lead to long-term metabolic benefits by increasing muscle mass, which burns more calories at rest. 

Cardio (Aerobic Exercise): 

Focus: Improving cardiovascular health, endurance, and stamina. 

Examples: Running, swimming, cycling, brisk walking. 

Benefits: 

• Improved heart health and circulation. 
• Increased stamina and fitness. 
• Calorie burning during the workout. 
• May help with weight loss. 

Weight Training (Strength Training): 

Focus: Building muscle strength, increasing bone density, and improving metabolism. 

Examples: Lifting weights, using resistance bands, bodyweight exercises. 

Benefits: 

• Increased muscle strength and tone. 
• Improved bone density. 
• Elevated metabolism, even at rest, as muscle tissue burns more calories. 
• May help with weight loss by increasing the metabolic rate. 

Comparing Cardio and Weight Training for Weight Loss: 

Calorie Burning:

Cardio typically burns more calories during the workout, but weight training can lead to a longer-lasting increase in metabolism. 

Muscle Preservation:

Weight training is crucial for maintaining or building muscle mass, which is important for long-term weight management and overall health. 

Body Composition:

Weight training can help shift body composition towards more muscle and less fat, which is beneficial for overall health and metabolism. 

Combined Approach:

Many experts recommend combining both cardio and weight training for optimal health and fitness results. 

Which is better for weight loss? 

While cardio may burn more calories during a single workout, weight training can be more effective for long-term weight management and fat loss due to its impact on muscle mass and metabolism. Combining both types of exercise is often recommended for a holistic approach to fitness and weight loss.