A question that is often asked is what is more beneficial cardiovascular
training or resistance training? I thought this would be a great question to
dedicate a post too so let's take a look.
First, let's discuss cardiovascular training. There are very many benefits that
one experiences from cardiovascular training. For instance, cardiovascular
training helps to burn a high caloric expenditure. Therefore such a caloric
expenditure will put you in a better positive balance as far as you are caloric
intake goes. Additionally, studies have shown that cardiovascular training can
help lower cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and increase mood and well-being.
So without a doubt, cardiovascular training is a great option.
That being said resistance training has great benefits as well. Not only are you
building muscle and increasing endurance, but you're also increasing bone
mineral density which will help prevent osteoporosis. Not only that but
resistance training can help increase your metabolism. By increasing your lean
musculature you will be burning more calories at rest as opposed to body fat.
Also, resistance training can help prevent muscles from atrophying and losing
their integrity.
It goes without saying that both cardiovascular training and resistance training
are very beneficial to one's program. Both should always be included and in my
opinion, one is no better than the other.