This is a common question I get asked. The answer is neither. They are both beneficial as part of a well structured training program, a balanced healthy diet and with consistency they can compliment each other.
Let’s take cardio for example; government guidelines say we should be getting 150 minutes of moderate cardio a week or 75 minutes high intensity cardio a week. Cardio training like (jogging, running, swimming, rowing etc) is the fastest way to burn calories whilst exercising.
However resistance training can continue burning calories post exercise by repairing and rebuilding muscle tissue, increasing muscle size and increasing our resting metabolism. So equally as beneficial don’t you think ?
Current guidelines say we should be doing resistance training 2-3 days a week for at least 20 minutes.
There are many ways to resistance train (bands, resistance machines, free weights and body weight exercises).
The style you choose obviously depends on your starting fitness level, the facilities/equipment you have at hand and the exercises you enjoy the most.
Body weight exercises can normally be more time efficient. As they work multiple muscle groups at once, known as compound exercises. These are, your press-ups, burpee’s, planks, squats and lunges for example.
Also never under estimate the value of a good stretch after a workout. Stretching can help prevent injury, enables us to keep good range of movement and good posture.
Remember always check with a health professional first if you are unsure if it is safe for you to exercise.
Enjoy your workouts.
Kelly and Tania's Fitness 